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Microsoft Updates Auto Development Platform to 5.0

Last week at the Automotive Conference 2005 in Yokahama, Japan, Microsoft announced the release of a new version of its customizable software platform Windows Automotive 5.0.

Based on Windows CE 5.0, the updated software offers industry partners a number of new features, including an Automotive User Interface Toolkit that reduces the need for interface code, among other features, and expanded virtual memory support for enhanced 3-D graphics. Other upgrades include enhanced scalability and extended support for industry standards, including MIPS, SuperH, Bluetooth, 802.11, UPnP, XML and SOAP, the company said.

"Now our partners have an automotive-grade software platform for delivering in-vehicle technology solutions that meet the growing demands of today's drivers and passengers," Marty Thall, general manager of the AUtomotive Business Unit at Microsoft, said in a printed statement. "Windows Automotive 5.0...reduces development costs and creates innovative, differentiated systems for every price range and vehicle type."

Windows Automotive was initially released in 1998. Microsoft technology is currently available in 27 pre-installed and 28 dealer option/aftermarket devices worldwide, including BMW, DaimlerChrysler and Honda, the company said.

For more information on Windows Automotive, go here. Go here for more information on Microsoft's partner program for this industry.

About the Author

Becky Nagel serves as vice president of AI for 1105 Media specializing in developing media, events and training for companies around AI and generative AI technology. She also regularly writes and reports on AI news, and is the founding editor of PureAI.com. She's the author of "ChatGPT Prompt 101 Guide for Business Users" and other popular AI resources with a real-world business perspective. She regularly speaks, writes and develops content around AI, generative AI and other business tech. She has a background in Web technology and B2B enterprise technology journalism.

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