Automobile Industry News: Mercedes-Benz, Microsoft, SK keyfoundry, LB Semicon RDL, Rivian, Google, LG, Atari, AirConsole, VW, onsemi, and Harman collaborate on connected car developments
Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft Team Up to Transform Vehicles into Mobile Workspaces
In a groundbreaking move, Mercedes-Benz has significantly expanded its collaboration with Microsoft, integrating the tech giant's productivity tools directly into its vehicles, starting with the latest Mercedes-Benz CLA model. This innovative integration aims to boost productivity on the move by enabling drivers to join Teams meetings via an on-board camera while driving, manage emails, summarize client details, and handle daily tasks safely through voice commands.
One of the key industry-first applications of this collaboration is the integration of Microsoft Teams inside the MB.OS vehicle operating system. This feature allows for seamless video calls and enhanced meetings from the dashboard. Another notable application is Microsoft 365 Copilot, a generative AI assistant, which supports drivers by preparing meeting briefs, querying client preferences, and automating routine tasks using natural voice prompts, thereby minimizing distractions.
Calender and task management features are also directly accessible on the car’s display, with upgraded voice chat functionalities for sending messages and managing meetings hands-free. This initiative represents a pioneering move in automotive environments by embedding advanced enterprise productivity tools into the vehicle interface, blending workplace collaboration directly into the driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz is also the first automaker to support in-car camera use for Microsoft Teams video calls while driving. The Direct RDL technology, which qualifies for AEC-Q100 Auto Grade 1 classification, ensures robust operation in extreme temperatures.
The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft illustrates a broader industry trend towards transforming cars into mobile workspaces integrated within Microsoft’s ecosystem. These features are launching initially in Europe and the U.S. and position the vehicle as a third workspace.
Meanwhile, other automakers are also making strides in this direction. Rivian has unveiled a new navigation system powered by Google Maps, offering a tailored in-car experience using Google’s Auto SDK. LG's webOS-based Automotive Content Platform (ACP) will power the in-car entertainment experience for Kia's new lineup of European models.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovations that blend work and travel, making our daily commutes more productive and enjoyable.
Driver assistance systems in the latest Mercedes-Benz CLA model are now equipped with Microsoft's generative AI assistant, Microsoft 365 Copilot, which helps minimize distractions by automating routine tasks using natural voice prompts. Additionally, finance-related applications, such as calendar and task management, are directly accessible on the car's display, further transforming vehicles into mobile workspaces within Microsoft's ecosystem.
