In 2009, Kia announced a partnership with Microsoft to bring an embedded version of Windows to its cars. Kia's Uvo system allowed some of the Korean automaker's vehicles to have touchscreens with features like satellite radio, voice recognition software, and more. A demo of Microsoft's software with the Kia Uvo system was shown at CES 2010.
Today, Kia announced that the next generation of Uvo will use Google software. The press release states:
The immediate integration of Google solutions will utilize Google Maps and Google Places to acquire driving directions and locate Points of Interest (POIs) in a seamless and organic manner. KMA and Google look forward to continuing to work together to bring innovative navigation solutions to enhance the connected car experience.
The 2014 Kia Sorento, which will go on sale in the first quarter of 2013, will be the first car to feature Google-powered Kia Uvo technology. Other Kia vehicles are expected to have the same system later in 2013. The system will use voice commands to help drivers use Google Maps for navigation.
There is also an iPhone app that will work with the system when it launches, and a corresponding Android app is scheduled for release later in 2013.
Kia's press release does not say why it decided to end its partnership with Microsoft. Microsoft continues to work with Ford Sync on an in-car technology system, which is now available in five million Ford vehicles.
