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Volkswagen Joins Ford With In-Car Computing

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Although details emerging are still murky, it looks as if the German auto-maker is developing an in-car computer (carputer, anyone?) based on Intel’s In-Vehicle Infotainment reference design that includes WWAN 3G connectivity via EVDO Rev. A, wifi, Bluetooth, and possibly even WiMax. USB ports will be housed in the glove compartment. The heart of the system is based on an Intel Z530 Atom processor running 1GB of RAM with up to two PATA hard drives. A touch-sensitive control panel head unit is made by Compal, a major ODM in the netbook and MID markets. Rumor also has it that a TV Tuner will also be available. The idea of having an in-car computer isn’t anything new, but to see a major car manufacturer developing such a system signals a paradigm shift in how we view mobile technology and what we expect to accomplish while on the road. Although I’m a huge fan of mobile computing, I’m not sure if an OEM carputer is the best way to get things done. With all of the distractions already available, how wise is it to add a full-featured computer to a driving environment? On the same token, however, I can’t help but think this technology would make Warner’s life that much easier while he’s running two shows in two cities at the same time. There’s a video from Slashgear after the jump as well as a link to the original article.

 

Via Slashgear

1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. Xavier Lanier

    05/20/2009 at 5:21 pm

    Looks interesting, but it really needs voice control. I think it’s critical for in-car computers to let drivers keep their hands on the wheel as much as possible.
    Hopefully Nuance will get in there somehow.

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