Volvo Cars announced last week it will put Skype for Business in cars — specifically the Volvo 90 Series line. The announcement marks the first instance of an automaker announcing commercial introduction of an in-car productivity tool, according to a news release. The app will be built into Volvo Series 90 center displays.
Putting Skype for Business in cars will enable drivers and passengers to view upcoming meetings and join them with one click.
“We’ve all been there. Sitting in the car trying to join a conference call. You either fumble with or drop your phone while trying to connect or you forget the long pin code to join,” Anders Tylman-Mikiewicz, Volvo Car Group VP, Consumer Connectivity Services was quoted as saying.
“It’s not the best way to start an important call in the car. On top of all that your attention is not where it should be – on the road. With the addition of Skype for Business all that goes away.”
Safety and greater convenience are the guiding principles Volvo Cars is using as it applies new information and communications technology (ICT) into its automobiles, according to the company.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5FmHHusIC4
Volvo is also exploring the use of Microsoft’s Cortana voice control technology in its cars. In addition, the company is working with Microsoft and Ericsson to develop next-generation, cloud-based in-car ICT for future models.
“Volvo Cars is leading the way in its recognition that the nature of work is increasingly mobile. People need to be productive from anywhere – including their cars,” explained Ben Canning, Microsoft Skype for Business director of product management. “We’re thrilled to extend modern meetings to Volvo cars.”