Windows CE in Your Car? Windows for Automobiles Ben Alley
Microsoft has made inroads into the Automotive industry, with the anouncement of Windows CE's introduction into the Automotive v.3 operating system. This announcment was made Oct. 16 at the Convergence 2000 conference on automotive electronics.
Bob McKenzie of the Automotive Business Unit at Microsoft was quoted as saying, "The market for in-car computing is poised to embark on an amazing journey," and expressed enthusiasm for setting future cars up with full computer benefits, especially online access. Microsoft is aware of the users' need for better safety and security in their cars, which the company claims is possible with CE. When it comes down to online features, Windows CE for Automotive v.3 offers internet access, traffic reports, instant messaging and navigation--all presumably through a satelite connection in the car. Microsoft has said that the applications for Windows CE for Automotive v.3 can be written in C, C++ or Java.
It seems that very soon Windows will have spread past your car or computer and right into your toaster and popcorn maker. Such messages as, "This Program has performed an illegal operation and will require a restart for continued popping" may be around the corner.
