Bill Gates, after meeting with Korean President Lee, announced Microsoft will invest $100M+ in setting up the “Automotive IT Innovation Center” jointly with Hyundai-Kia Motors, the nation’s premier auto company. According to Reuters, the first product under the partnership would be a voice-controlled system linking mobile devices to car stereo systems; Later versions are expected to include multimedia and navigation-related features. In plain English: the US-bound Hyundai and Kia vehicles will soon have Microsoft-powered gadgets and interfaces inside the cars. As evidenced by Ray Ozzie’s “Mesh” plan, Microsoft is working hard on its new corporate vision to provide ubiquitous connected experience across all devices and environments, including the driver’s seat. Meanwhile, BMW has begun offering on-board internet access. Other companies like Nissan and Apple should also be looking at similar opportunities.

[From Web 2.0 Asia]