Volvo and Microsoft have collaborated to create a wearable-enabled voice control system with Volvo owners able to talk to their car via their Microsoft Band 2. From asking their vehicle to set navigation, start the heaters, lock the doors and even sounding the horn via Volvo’s mobile app Volvo on Call and through the device – reminiscent of the relationship between The Hof and KITT from Knight Rider.
Following on from the 2015 announcement of HoloLens technology, the two companies have combined once again as another proof-point in their ambition to jointly develop next generation automotive technologies.
“Volvo is intent on making the car experience as easy and convenient as possible by utilising the latest technology in the most relevant and inspiring ways. With voice control we are only just beginning to scratch the surface of what is possible with digital assistant functionalities,” said Thomas Müller, Vice President Electrics/ Electronics & E-Propulsion at Volvo Car Group
The new possibility to connect to a Volvo with voice control through Microsoft Band 2 will be available for customers in Volvo on Call enabled markets in spring 2016.