KEY POINTS:
HYUNDAI/KIA (HKAG) and Microsoft have signed a long-term agreement to co-develop the next generation of in-car infotainment systems - they will produce solutions based on the Microsoft Auto software platform.
The first product, an infotainment system that provides voice-controlled connectivity between mobile devices, will be introduced in North America in 2010.
It will further apply to Asian and European markets, and expand into multimedia and navigation devices.
The systems are comparable to mini-PCs. Even after product launch, new functions can be added or upgraded in the form of software program updates.
In a related announcement, Microsoft and HKAG, with the Institute for Information Technology Advancement, have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish an automotive IT innovation centre to promote innovation and opportunities for Korean software and device vendors.
