Remember the old Microsoft car jokes? Like this one: If Microsoft built cars, every time they repainted the lines on the road, you'd have to buy a new car. I am sure you can remember a few too or Google it to find a whole list that poke fun at the technology.
They all surfaced after then Microsoft CEO Bill Gates made comments comparing advances in computing to the automotive industry. Really, he took shots at the auto industry.
Although it was a while ago, those jokes still make us laugh. What’s even funnier is that they are taking on a new meaning now that Ford has employed Microsoft Sync in its vehicles and Google is developing a driverless car.
Technology takes over cars
Those who know me know that I am totally into cars. Combine that with my technology background and I am sure you are not surprised to find that the Sync technology and driverless cars capture my interest.
I have been following the advancements of the technology for quite some time now. For the first time, I actually believe the driverless cars are close to getting on the roadways. California Governor Jerry Brown in May signed a law allowing the first licensed autonomous vehicles to roam freely on the California's public roadways. Communities are concerned about congestion while consumers are captivated by connectivity.
Everyone knows that using a phone – whether calling and texting or navigating or emailing – is dangerous while driving. Yet, so many do it.
Ford’s answer: Sync
Sync, available in all models of the Ford and Lincoln brands, uses Microsoft and Bluetooth technology to connect a cell phone to the car. Drivers use voice commands to initiate a variety of tasks, such as making calls or playing music files from a mobile device. Sync even can read texts to the driver as they arrive. The technology aims to keep drivers’ eyes on the road by allowing them to also use voice commands for the car's systems, like the radio, navigation and climate controls.
The concern: What happens when you need to upgrade the technology? Yes, drivers need to update the Sync system and that requires them to leave the car running – just like your computer. And yes, it takes time. It requires drivers to take a USB drive with software updates to their vehicles, turn on the vehicle, then turn on the radio and keep the engine running between 25 to 35 minutes.
Other car manufacturers are taking notes. This Sync technology likely will be as common as power windows and seats soon – hopefully with an easier way to update.
Google’s answer: The driverless car
Google is breaking the mold for car manufacturing with its driverless car technology. It integrates technology at every turn and stands to completely change the car driving experience. With Google’s robust mapping software and camera technology, the car can take the fastest route, automatically redirect for traffic patterns and find the nearest parking spot.
Google is not alone. From BMW and Honda to Chrysler and Nissan, most major car manufacturers have been working on their own autonomous vehicle technology – just with much lower profiles.
What’s most interesting to me is the reaction the younger generation has to the self-driving car technology. My teenage kids see the technology as inevitable and have few reservations about it. Some would prefer it over the traditional car. With self-driving cars, they can call, text, video or surf the Internet while driving - legally.
I remember when driving was more than getting from point A to point B. It was a rite of passage. How do you impress the girls in a driverless car? I went through a few tires in my early days.
Skeptical?
I am a skeptic. While I appreciate technology, I will be slow to adopt a driverless car - for two key reasons. First, the current model lacks a steering wheel, brake or accelerator. What happens if the computer system fails? I want an option to override and manually take the controls.
Second, computers are not that smart and safety cannot be compromised. While computers pack serious computing power, they still do not compare to the human brain. Our brains can decipher an object on the road far faster than a computer – and then react instinctively. Computers aren’t there. But a younger generation will be quicker to adopt and that could make them more prevalent in the near future.
Technology continues to seep into every industry with applications we never imagined 20 or even 10 years ago. What once sounded sci-fi is now close to reality. I encourage you to consider: How will it affect your industry?
