The IT Melting Pot!

Current Volvo infotainment systems require users to twist a control knob and push multiple buttons, but Ericsson showed off a new touchscreen interface for future Volvo models. The system, displayed at the Consumer Electronics Show in an XC60 crossover, will be offered as a dealer-installed add-on and will later become standard across the Volvo lineup.

The touchscreen runs on a version of the Android operating system and connects to Ericsson’s “cloud” software through the driver’s Bluetooth-paired smartphone. Starting in May, it will be offered as a dealer-installed add-on for any Volvo with a seven-inch Sensus infotainment screen. The upgrade consists of adding an interface box in the glovebox and adding a special infrared screen overlay that makes it touch sensitive. By the end of 2013, the new touchscreen interface will become standard or optional on all new Volvos, replacing today’s button-based Sensus.

The software’s home page simply shows the time, weather conditions, and the currently playing song. You “swipe” the screen left and right to access more apps. In addition to the car’s built-in iPod connection and CD player, Ericsson’s software features Deezer, Spotify, and TuneIn internet radio — and users can search for new artists or songs by speaking aloud. There are also various other built-in apps, and the system will link to the Parrot Asteroid app store so owners can download more features.

There are two navigation options. The Google Maps option has pinch-to-zoom functions like a smartphone, and can also display satellite images from Google Earth. The other option, iGo, looks remarkably like the current Volvo navigation system and has clear 3D-style graphics…

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//Richard