Blue&Me is a Windows Mobile-based communication system that is integrated into a car. It has been developed by a joint venture established in 2004 between Fiat and Redmond and uses Bluetooth technology to allow vehicle occupants to make hands-free calls via their mobile phones or laptops.
It does this using a voice-recognition system, which is said to need no training or learning, due to its advanced linguistics. It transfers and automatically updates an address book, from up to five different mobile phones. In addition it features a USB port in the glove box to allow playback of music files stored in MP3, WMA, WAV formats.
Now Microsoft and Fiat are unveiling the next version of the system, known as Blue&Me Nav, at the 2007 Geneva motor show. It will be bundled into the new Fiat Bravo, first in Italy and later rolled out later to other European markets. The new system offers voice-controlled navigation system, as well as an SMS interpreter. All key functions such as the phone, music player, and navigation are built into the instrument panel.
Further enhancements are being developed, including options for business or fleet customers.
