Mercedes-Benz previews new internet-based command system

Muamer Hodzic November 19, 2008

Mercedes-Benz is offering a glimpse into the future with myCOMAND, an internet-based infotainment system as part of a special preview during the Los Angeles Auto Show. myCOMAND is said to be especially efficient and user-friendly. Using internet connectivity, all data and information is kept fresh and current at all times without the need for software or hardware updates. All functions are concentrated on one user interface for easy and intuitive access. For the Mercedes-Benz researchers, complete integration, reliable operation and data protection were the highest priorities in the design of myCOMAND.

Mercedes will tap into the cellular network to enable users to download data wherever they are.

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The most important new services of myCOMAND are:

Off-board navigation: It not only always works with the latest map, but also takes the traffic information available on the internet into account for route selection. Along with the conventional map display it is also possible to show satellite images which enable easier orientation.

Trip Assist: This service automatically accesses the large amount of information available on the internet and presents it to the driver in optimally edited form at the right time.

World Radio: Via internet you can tune in practically every radio station in the world – while traveling in your car you can even get radio stations from the other side of the world.

Internet telephony: With myCOMAND the telephone, like all other services, also can utilize the advantages of the internet. Thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), myCOMAND enables putting calls through free of charge or sending short messages via internet and simultaneously transmitting voice and data.

Of course, a browser additionally allows you to surf the internet in the accustomed way.

Attractive looks, intuitive operation

myCOMAND not only offers many new options, but is attractively designed for intuitive operation. The centrally arranged display has a brilliant resolution that is optimally positioned in the driver’s field of vision so that he or she can better keep an eye on the current traffic situation. The COMAND controller — an ergonomically optimized rotary pushbutton on the center consol — enables simple, accurate operation.

The Home screen shows a stylized globe. All selectable functions revolve around it, moved by turning the rotary pushbutton; with a push you select the menu item in the foreground. This opens a new menu with more items for selection. The design of the menu, circling a symbolic globe, is not merely an optical highlight; it greatly simplifies operation in conjunction with the rotary pushbutton and its synchronized motion.

By means of two buttons next to the central control, additional functions such as the menu options can be called up. Also, the “back” button enables quickly correcting any wrong entries. Connection with LINGUATRONIC in future will enable operating myCOMAND also by voice.
myCOMAND lays the foundation for optimal use of the internet in the car. The Mercedes-Benz researchers expect that it will take a few more years until the technical prerequisites have been created and such a system is available in production cars.