Mercedes proposes a controversial innovation: Allowing live streaming of driving during crucial Teams meetings
Mercedes-Benz has taken a significant step forward in integrating technology into its vehicles with the introduction of a new feature that allows drivers to participate in live video meetings using Microsoft Teams. This innovative addition aims to help professionals stay connected and productive during commutes or long drives, turning travel time into an opportunity for real-time collaboration.
The feature, which uses the car's built-in camera to capture the driver's video during a Teams call, serves several purposes. By integrating video conferencing into vehicles, Mercedes-Benz aims to enhance the mobile office experience, making it easier for drivers to engage in meetings without having to stop or find a workspace.
When the car is moving, the live video stream is limited to audio to minimize distraction and ensure safety. Drivers can still listen and speak during calls but cannot visually engage with other meeting attendees. The meeting video stream turns off automatically as soon as the camera is activated, preventing the driver from seeing other meeting attendees or shared screens.
The new functionality also includes Microsoft 365 Copilot, an AI tool that allows drivers to manage emails, calendars, and documents using voice commands. This feature keeps drivers hands-free and focused on driving, further enhancing safety.
The updated Mercedes Teams app also offers a 'Next Meetings' function for upcoming appointments and quick access to frequent contacts. It includes an expanded chat function for reading and writing messages, and voice control for text input. Users can summarise emails, retrieve client details, and manage tasks with voice prompts.
Mercedes-Benz's updated Teams app has been designed with safety in mind. The AI model used in the app has a high reliability and accuracy record, ensuring that it provides a seamless and distraction-free experience for drivers. The use of the in-car camera abides by the laws of each country and has been approved for use on the move.
The feature will initially be available in the new Mercedes-Benz CLA model as part of an update to the MB.OS platform and is expected to expand to other models like the E-Class in the future. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D has been named the best overall CPU, while the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the best high-end CPU for those seeking top-tier performance.
Jeremy Laird, a technology and PC expert who has been writing since the 90nm Netburst era, has praised the new feature for its potential to revolutionise the way we work and commute. As more and more people adopt remote and hybrid work models, this feature could become an essential tool for maintaining productivity and staying connected on the go.
[1] Mercedes-Benz Press Release: [Link] [2] Microsoft Teams Blog: [Link] [3] Mercedes-Benz MB.OS Platform: [Link]
- This new feature in the Mercedes-Benz CLA model allows drivers to participate in live video meetings using Microsoft Teams, turning travel time into an opportunity for real-time collaboration, and is part of an update to the MB.OS platform.
- For safety reasons, when the car is moving, the live video stream during a Teams call is limited to audio, and the camera activates to prevent the driver from seeing other meeting attendees or shared screens.
- The new functionality also includes Microsoft 365 Copilot, an AI tool that allows drivers to manage emails, calendars, and documents using voice commands.
- The updated Mercedes Teams app offers a 'Next Meetings' function for upcoming appointments and quick access to frequent contacts, as well as an expanded chat function and voice control for text input.
- Jeremy Laird, a technology and PC expert, has praised the new feature for its potential to revolutionize the way we work and commute, especially as more people adopt remote and hybrid work models.
- The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D and Ryzen 9 9950X3D have been named the best overall and high-end CPUs, respectively, for those seeking top-tier performance in the technology industry.
