Microsoft's Automotive Software Platform to Be Deployed in 'G-BOOK,' - BIG WIN FOR MS!

REDMOND, Wash., Aug. 30 Microsoft Corp.today announced that Microsoft® Windows® CE for Automotive, a software platform designed to deliver in-car communication and information systems, is at the heart of the new in-car telematics devices used by "G-BOOK," Toyota Motor Corp.'s new information network service. Toyota will begin installing the in-car "G-BOOK" device in a new car in Japan this fall.

"G-BOOK," announced on Wednesday by Toyota, is a new information network service that will connect people, cars and society. The company will begin implementing the service this October. The in-car "G-BOOK" devices will be a new type of system that will enable not only hands-free communication and navigation, but a variety of services. The Windows CE for Automotive platform is an integral component of the in-car "G-BOOK" system.

"We are very proud of our work with Toyota to deliver an advanced information network system that connects people any time, anywhere and on any device," said Dick Brass, vice president of technology development overseeing the automotive efforts at Microsoft. "Microsoft and Toyota share this vision, and we look forward to a continued relationship to bring the best software and services to consumers. The 'G-BOOK' in-car device is a great first step."

Windows CE for Automotive, built on Windows CE technology, is an automotive-centric software platform that makes possible new categories of in-car computing systems. The technology is equipped with features integral to deploying reliable and safe in-car information systems. Key components include a customizable graphical user interface and Internet access. These building blocks enable Toyota's preferred system suppliers to build full-featured in-vehicle multimedia systems.

Designing personalized services, diagnostics, hands-free communication capabilities, and other convenience and productivity applications for cars requires an open and flexible software platform that can deliver a sophisticated, cost-effective computing environment. Microsoft Windows CE for Automotive is leading the trend toward making in-car computing a reality.

Earlier this summer, Venture Development Corp., an independent research organization, revealed that shipments of Windows embedded operating systems had more than doubled in 2001, demonstrating continuing industry-wide support for Microsoft's embedded software technologies. In addition, Microsoft Windows CE for Automotive technology is featured in the computing and communications systems of 12 car models from five auto manufacturers worldwide.

About Windows CE for Automotive

Microsoft has invested half a decade in providing the automotive industry with great software that delivers information, entertainment, communication and services in vehicles. The company works very closely with automakers, automotive electronics manufacturers and consumers to provide the embedded automotive industry with the systems and tools for building the next generation of intelligent, Windows Powered devices that demand rich applications and Internet services for a wide range of flexible solutions. Windows CE for Automotive is an open platform that allows developers to quickly create powerful in-car computing solutions. It offers flexibility and choice of computing platforms, hardware peripherals and software components, as well as a large community of experienced developers for Windows CE.