Everywhere you turn nowadays there seems to be a new wearable technology that promises a host of different features. So in that sense the Microsoft Band is nothing new. It’s an innovative smart band that allows you to monitor your health, step count, and now voice control and activate your car. That’s right this small health monitor that straps to your wrist now allows you to send voice commands directly to select Volvo models.
As an extension of Microsoft Health the health band has set some lofty goals. With serious competition from Samsung and Apple, it remains to be seen how viable these goals are. But one thing is for sure, being able to voice control your car is definitely one of the coolest features yet.
Volvo is the first manufacturer to integrate this feature, announcing their partnership with Microsoft at CES 2015. The fitness tracker will utilize Volvo’s On Call telematics app and unlock a bevy of features for car owners.
You can now control your car using just your voice, to do things that are mostly available through a keyfob. Unlock doors, open your trunk and even precondition the vehicle by turning on the heater or climate controls accordingly. Although the current set of instructions isn’t natural at the moment, there is a feature that allows you to customize the commands as needed.
While it’s not groundbreaking in it’s own right, it signals that automotive infotainment is bigger than ever and doesn’t show signs of slowing any time soon. And that’s the point to take away from the CES announcement between Volvo and the Microsoft Band. The day when your wearable tech and cell phone communicate directly with your vehicle is closer than you realize.
The battle between wearable tech is still heating up, and there’s no way to determine the winner just yet. But Microsoft promises advanced controls and is looking to add more car manufacturers to the fold shortly. For more information on the latest in car technology and smart devices, subscribe to My Pro Street.
