Honda to Add Apple Hands-Free Technology to its Vehicles

By Cynthia Herbert :: 7:59 AM

Honda is joining carmakers like Ford and Audi, who at CES earlier this month confirmed their adoption of new in-car technology that interfaced with the Internet and mobile devices. Honda will do the same in its vehicles through Apple’s Siri Eyes Free technology.

The Siri Eyes Free system had previously been announced in the Chevrolet Sonic. Now Honda has jumped on board and confirmed that some of its cars, as well as Acura vehicles will receive Siri Eyes Free technology starting with 2013 models.

The functionality was an afterthought – probably due to the tremendous success of announcements like Ford’s car-as-platform initiative earlier this month. The Siri interface is not a factory-installed option for Hondas, but rather  a dealer-installed one only for the 2013 Accord and Acura RDX and ILX models.

The tasks that users will be able to do with the interface include sending text messages, making phone calls, and selecting and playing music. Honda has reengineered onboard software in its vehicle infotainment systems to complete the Siri Eyes Free integration, and will leverages its existing Bluetooth HandsFreeLink microphone and speakers already installed in these models.

While late to the game, Honda certainly doesn’t want to be left behind by the recent push for interconnected cars and mobile devices.