Microsoft Auto is off to a fast start for 2010, even before the opening of next week’s North American Auto Show in Detroit. CES (News - Alert) announcements featured the Microsoft Auto 4.1 platform that powers Ford’s popular Sync in-car connectivity solution as well as its hard working cousin, Ford Work Solutions for trucks and RFID-connected tools.  

 

In addition to extended support for Bluetooth and media player integration, the big news for Sync is that Microsoft (News - Alert) is expanding its ecosystem partnerships to a broad range of automotive makes and models.

 

Ford Sync is looking more like an all-purpose auto connectivity, infotainment, safety, service and navigation solution with the addition of options like color LCD screens, advanced driver assistance for blind spot info and real time traffic alerts. In a sure sign of more innovative features to come, Ford also announced that its enhanced “MyFordTouch” will be open to third party apps.  

 

No surprise that Microsoft Auto and Ford between them snagged a car seat full of CES awards, including Design and Engineering Awards for Ford Work Solutions and SYNC application Traffic, Directions & Information and 2010 Best of Innovations in the In-Vehicle Accessories category for Ford Work Solutions’ in-dash computer.