In addition to the Palm PC, Microsoft also introduced the "Auto PC" at the
Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The Auto PC is a car stereo-like device
running Windows CE 2.0 that supports voice commands and speech recognition,
updated traffic alerts via wireless navigation support, and an optional
Global Positioning System (GPS). Auto makers such as Mercedes, Volkswagen,
Nissan, and Hyundai will be adding the Auto PC to select cars, and
aftermarket car stereo makers such as Alpine, Clarion, and Harman Kardon
have agreed to manufacture Auto PC devices.
The Auto PC features a Windows CE 2.0 shell that is operated by voice
commands or via a couple of simple buttons on the unit itself. Navigation
software specifies directions by address, intersection, or points of
interest and uses voice synthesis to communicate with the driver verbally.
Auto PCs can store addresses and phone numbers, and link to a Palm PC,
Handheld PC, or laptop computer via infrared. Auto PCs also include an
AM/FM radio, and a cassette player or CD player so that normal car stereo
features can be enabled.
For more information about the Auto PC, please visit the Microsoft Auto PC
homepage.
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