Toyota is getting access to Microsoft’s connected vehicle patents.
Microsoft doesn’t make cars, but it has a history of working with numerous automakers and suppliers to brings its technologies and services to customers. For example, Microsoft’s Azure service is the leading cloud platform for the auto industry. Toyota however, is the first partner in the launch of Microsoft’s new auto licensing program, building on the two companies’ strong partnership that includes their collaboration on the Azure-based Toyota Big Data Center.
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As part of the agreement, Toyota will get access to Microsoft’s suite of vehicle technologies that includes an operating system, voice recognition, gesture control, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity tools. It’s worth noting that Toyota is likely not the only automaker that will eventually partner with Microsoft, as the agreement isn’t exclusive.
“This is an exciting time in the industry, and we believe that to create the best, most immersive connected car experiences, automotive makers should partner with technology leaders like Microsoft,” said Tokuhisa Nomura, executive general manager of Toyota’s Advanced R&D and Engineering Company. “Through this patent partnership between Toyota and Microsoft, we will be able to innovate faster to deliver new, contextual and immersive experiences to our customers.”
