Microsoft’s platform for the development of in-vehicle infotainment solutions, which enable drivers to connect to a wide variety of multimedia and Internet-enabled connected services and technology for information and entertainment purposes.
The latest release of the platform, Windows Embedded Automotive 7, adds Microsoft Silverlight development tools, Microsoft Tellme speech technology for voice input control, touchscreen input support, extended SMS text message support, support for hands-free phone communication via Bluetooth technology and enhanced smartphone mobile device integration.
Windows Embedded Automotive 7’s capabilities serve to help in the development and production of sophisticated automotive components and solutions from automotive manufacturers. The platform powers a number of currently available in-vehicle infotainment services, most notably Ford s SYNC and MyTouch Ford, Toyota s Entune system and Fiat s Blue&Me.
Windows Embedded Automotive 7 builds on two previous efforts from Microsoft, Microsoft Auto 4.1 and Windows Automotive 5.5, and is powered by Windows Embedded Compact 7, a compact real-time operating system that also powers the Windows Phone 7 platform.