Kenwood unveiled the “HDM-777” on Friday, which is what I believe is the first aftermarket navigation system to use Windows Automotive. At least, it’s the first one I’ve seen. All Blue Screen of Death jokes aside, Windows Automotive is a key component of Microsoft’s “Connected Car Initiative”—the company’s leap into the automotive industry.
Though Kenwood hasn’t clarified whether or not this new unit takes advantage of Windows Automotive’s entire featureset (Bluetooth, driver distraction control, high quality graphics, audio and video playback), the specifications do list a 7” touchscreen monitor, 20GB hard drive, DVD/CD, MP3 and Windows Media Video playback, and even an internet connection “for connection to a home server.” It sounds nice, but the best we can do for now is guess; Kenwood’s press release isn’t specific at all. I’m hoping this means you can stream MP3s and video from your home PC to your car, but don’t count on it. Pricing on the HDM-777 is at 193,000 yen (about $1,800 USD).
Press Release [Kenwood via TechJapan]
Related:
Where Would You Like To Stop Today? [Gizmodo]
https://gizmodo.com/where-would-you-like-to-stop-today-9239
