Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) Taking Its Talents To Auto Industry

Over the past few years, it has become obvious that Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is interested in becoming more and more involved in the automotive industry. While this is a good way for the company to expand its reach, this is not always the easiest market to break into.

However, it appears, that Microsoft Corporation is well on its way.

According to a recent report by Automotive News, “Chrysler Group is equipping some of its lower-trim vehicles with a Microsoft-based infotainment system used by Fiat — and, according to the software maker, more vehicles are on the way.”

This is something that will work in the favor of Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) as well as the many vehicles in the Chrysler lineup.

Even if its infotainment system is only going to be featured in some lower-trim vehicles for the time being, this helps Microsoft get its foot in the door. In other words, the company will be in good position to expand its reach in the years to come.

Here is more from the article, explaining why this is big news for Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT):

“The change is noteworthy because the new system will share a name with Chrysler’s highly regarded infotainment system, called Uconnect, but will operate differently with Microsoft software. A company called QNX Software Systems provides nearly all the software and other technology for Chrysler’s Uconnect infotainment system. Chrysler’s QNX-based infotainment system has been heralded widely by critics for its ease of use, options and sophistication.”

In the Fiat 500L system, for example, the Uconnect system relies on a 5 inch touch screen as well as support of multiple devices ranging from smartphones to tablets among others. Along with this, applications can be installed to improve the user experience.

The question at this point is: what can the Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) software bring to the table that Uconnect cannot? Since the software powering the system is going to be unique, it will be interesting to see if the option from Microsoft brings more to the table. It is safe to say that this is what the company is hoping for.

Chrysler did not respond to comments:

“A spokesman for Chrysler declined to comment on Microsoft’s assertion that it will be used in future products. He did say Chrysler is happy with its current QNX-based Uconnect system.”

There is definitely some uncertainty as to what will happen next regarding Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) and its potential to be used in future Chrysler vehicles. However, if nothing else, it appears that the company has its foot through the door. What happens next will be fun to watch.