Microsoft uses CES to unveil - AutoPC software - Consumer Electronics

Television Digest with Consumer Electronics, Jan 12, 1998

Microsoft used CES to unveil AutoPC software that will power new class of dashboard-mounted, voice-activated car computers. In addition to traditional features such as AM/FM and CD player, device will accept voice commands and translate text messages into synthetic voice output, enabling drivers to listen to e-mail, traffic reports and navigational directions.

Future applications will enable device to integrate with cellular phones, pagers and diagnostic system of car. Devices, from manufacturers including Clarion, will he available by midyear under $1,000. Mleresort also is in discussion with car makers, but said long design cycles will prevent device from being available as factory option before model year 2000.