Volvo to use Skype for Business app in 90 series cars

Volvo Cars recently announced that it will introduce Skype for Business, Microsoft’s leading collaborative productivity app, to its new 90 Series cars, which includes the new Volvo XC90 SUV and S90. Volvo Cars is the first carmaker to launch such an in-car productivity tool.

“We’ve all been there. Sitting in the car trying to join a conference call. You either fumble with or drop your phone while trying to connect or you forget the long pin code to join. It’s not the best way to start an important call in the car.

“On top of all that, your attention is not where it should be—on the road. With the addition of Skype for Business, all that goes away,” said Anders Tylman-Mikiewicz, vice president for Consumer Connectivity Services at Volvo Car Group.

Skype for Business is actively used by millions of people at work around the globe.

In Volvo’s 90 Series cars, people will be able to view their upcoming meetings and participant details, and join meetings with one click via the large center display.

“Skype for Business represents another big step forward for our in-car connectivity and communication offer. With the dawn of autonomous cars, we see a future where flexible in-car productivity tools will enable people to reduce time spent in the office,” added Tylman-Mikiewicz.

Volvo Cars’ approach to the application of technology in cars is grounded in the desire to make their customers’ lives easier and safer by using the latest relevant technology in a smart way.

Volvo’s partnership with Microsoft also includes the exploration of using Cortana, Microsoft’s intelligent personal assistant, with the express intention of adding seamless voice recognition and contextual insights to support peoples’ daily lives by actively predicting their needs.

Working together with Microsoft and Ericsson, who provide cloud-based solutions for Volvo Cars, the Swedish company continues to develop and provide visionary services and features for its growing customer base.