Microsoft Is Almost Ready To Take On Apple’s iOS In The Car And Google’s Projected Mode With Windows

In March, we did an editorial on the current infotainment systems in Automobiles and how Microsoft is losing yet another opportunity/market even though it came too earlier than others. It seems, Microsoft is working on the same and they showed some of their concepts at BUILD developer conference last week. Microsoft’s current strategy is similar to that of Apple’s iOS in the Car and Google’s projected mode. It is based on MirrorLink which will allow you to use your smartphone to power your car’s infotainment system.

MirrorLink is a device interoperability standard that offers integration between a smartphone and a car’s infotainment system. MirrorLink transforms smartphones into automotive application platforms where apps are hosted and run on the smartphone while drivers and passengers interact with them through the steering wheel controls, dashboard buttons and touch screens of their car’s In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system.

Windows in the Car will adapt apps on your smartphone to your car’s display system. Microsoft demoed number of apps working in this way, that includes Contacts, Maps, Maps, Music, and many others. There will also be a Store which will allow users to download apps optimized for their car experience. Find screenshots below and watch the video above to know all about this.