CES 2016: Harman And Microsoft Teams Up To Bring Office 365 On The Road

Photo Credit: Harman

The major exhibition of consumer electronics starting off 2016 serves as the perfect place to take advantage of the optimism of a new 12-month period. A parent company behind premium sound as well as infotainment solution names like Harman Kardon, JBL and Infinity, Harman has unleashed a barrage of news for the 2016 CES in Las Vegas.

Cloud-based service delivery, integration with smart home technology and most impressively pupil-based driver monitoring is part of Harman's automotive-related announcements. Not to be left off, Harman also unveils a number of audio system components such as the Infinity Voyager Drive Bluetooth unit.

Among the plans for improving the in-car experience for driver and passengers, Harman is partnering with Microsoft to open-up greater connectivity possibilities. Involved in Harman's showcase of new mobile productivity solutions is components of Microsoft's trademark Office 365 technology suite. Integrated with infotainment systems and personal assistant software, Microsoft Office 365 functions will be accessible to occupants in a near seamless manner. Scheduling, voice transcription and compilation of emails as well as conference call abilities of Office 365 is being merged with Harman infotainment units. “Bringing the power of Office 365 into HARMAN’s connected car systems will provide new productivity solutions and transform the driving experience,” said Microsoft's executive vice president of business development Peggy Johnson.

With road safety in mind, the technology minimizes distractions when a vehicle is in motion. Skype video conferences can be put on hold by drivers or occupants. Harman also realizes the possibilities of self-driving or autonomous vehicles will someday expand their productivity suite's function on the move.

Describing the partnership, Harman states, “Working with Microsoft is a natural fit for HARMAN as we continue our track record of making the car more sophisticated, productive and intelligent”.

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