apps

Windows to Connect Cars with MirrorLink?

WindowscarMany cars run Windows CE or Windows Automotive, including BMW, Fiat, Ford, Kia, and Nissan. However recently, Ford opted for the QNX operating system from BlackBerry.

Microsoft is working on a head unit infotainment system that runs Windows. Windows Phone screens will display on the in-dash screen via MirrorLink. It was shown at the Windows Build Conference.

The system tries to cut down the “cognitive load,” keeping eyes on the screen less than 2 seconds, good screen sizing, end of small touch icons and most of the system running with voice activations from Microsoft’s Cortana system.

The cards on the screen are pinned with functions needed most like Windows Phone. Features include music playing, turn-by-turn directions by Nokia Here/BingMaps, voice search and text messages.

Some contend that because the system uses MirrorLink, it could be updated to older vehicles.

Connected car information starts at 31 minutes.

Global Connected Car App SAP Winners: Hermes, AI, Costs, GroupCar, Parking & Shopping

HeremeroadwarriorThe 2013 Global Connected Car Contest Winners were announced in February and are sponsored by SAP Winners are invited to Silicon Valley in August to meet with experts from SAP and General Motors to work on their ideas.

University of Texas Naveen Jindal School of Management students’ Hermes Road Warrior System  won for Hermes Road Warrior System in the other category.

Will Pandora Radio Dominate Connected Cars & Great Live Streaming Music @SXSW?

PandoraLivePandora is one of the most popular streaming media apps and the company is hoping to be as ubiquitous in the automotive space. Pandora is opening up its box with great music at SXSW at the Gatsby inAustin’s Red River District. More than 35 acts are scheduled to perform over four days March 12-15 that will streamed live. Types of music played will include electronic, pop, hip hop, R&B, Americana, indie rock and eclectic music.

In an interview with iMedia Connection, Heidi Browning is the SVP of strategic solutions at Pandora, said some interesting things bout Pandora:

Zubie iControls Connected Car and Home @developersgarage

zubiewithphoneConnected car OBII device and app maker Zubie  has partnered with iControl Networks. Together, they plan to offer home automation through cars and  smartphones seamlessly.

Zubie lets family members know when you are your own way home or share locations with fellow Zubie users.  Zubie connects to the OBII computer port on cars.

 

GM & Chevy Dances to Beats Music at SXSW

beatsmusicChevy announced at SXSW that Beats Music streaming music will be available in the Chevy AppShop and on select Chevy models this year.

Beats Music is a streaming music service with playlist and curated music options. Chevy AppShop can be used via 4G LTE connections through OnStar 4G LTE. A free trial of Beats Music or paid subscription is required.