Volkswagen and Microsoft in-car technology
While in the past we’ve seen Microsoft work closely with Fiat in the auto industry to develop the Blue&Me electronic interface, the software giant is now partnering with Volkswagen to help develop the next-generation of in-car entertainment technology, and possibly do-away with in-car DVD players in the process.
Microsoft has announced that it’s signed a patent licensing agreement with Volkswagen’s software supplier e.solutions, giving the automaker access to its Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT) technology.
The file storage technology delivers a significant leap forward in the size of media files that can be stored on a broad range of consumer electronic devices and increases the speed with which they can be accessed.
This means vehicle owners could soon be able to quickly transfer a movie from any portable device and watch it through their car’s display screen. In fact, Volkswagen is currently working on a new multimedia platform that will provide a longer menu of infotainment options for vehicle owners.
Unfortunately, this all sounds like just another step towards turning cars into just another appliance. We hope any new technology Volkswagen and Microsoft are planning won’t lead to further distraction for drivers.
