Technology News: Handheld Devices: Microsoft to Sync Speech Software in Kias, Hyundais

Hyundai and Kia will be the next carmakers to offer Microsoft's Sync system in their vehicles. Sync connects personal electronics to the car's audio system and facilitates voice-activated control. Ford is currently in an exclusive deal with Microsoft to offer Sync, but that exclusivity expires in November.

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Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) has signed a worldwide deal with automakers Hyundai and Kia to use its in-car software that allows people to use voice commands to control personal music players and telephones.

Microsoft's exclusive, one-year agreement with Ford Motor for offering Microsoft Auto in the U.S. expires in November. Ford's system, called "Sync," connects mobile phones, iPods or MP3 players to the car's audio system.

Fiat sells cars with the software outside the U.S.

Navigation, Safety Features

Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors will be entitled to sell cars equipped with Microsoft Auto around the world starting in November, but the companies are working on new capabilities and probably won't be ready this fall, said Velle Kolde, senior product manager for Microsoft Auto.

Kolde wouldn't say what types of features Hyundai and Kia may add but said the software could include navigation and an emergency call service activated when air bags inflate.

"What specific features you see will be tailored toward the types of vehicles they go into," Kolde said.

End of Exclusivity

The two Asian automakers also will tailor features to geography and needs of each country where their cars are sold, he said.

Microsoft is now free to license the software to other automakers as well.

Ford's system, called "Sync," connects mobile phones, iPods or MP3 players to the car's audio system.

Sync is standard on some Ford Motor models but optional others. On Ford's Focus and Fusion cars, about 50 percent of buyers pick the Sync option, said George Pipas, Ford's top sales analyst.