Car manufacturers have long worked with Microsoft. For more than 15 years, embedded Microsoft platforms such as Windows CE and Windows Automotive have powered in-vehicle systems from brands including BMW, Fiat, Ford, Kia, and Nissan.
Until now, Microsoft has played a behind-the-scenes role; it has not controlled the end-user experience. With Apple’s CarPlay already appearing in upcoming vehicles, Microsoft appears poised to take a more visible role in the cockpit.
At last week’s BUILD developer conference, Microsoft demonstrated a new in-car Windows concept both in simulators that showcased eye-tracking and in actual cars on a Seattle racetrack. The system remains a concept at present, but it is already functional and Microsoft executives say a public release could follow.
The interface adopts the tiled Modern UI that Microsoft uses across its current software: a flat, simple, and functional design. Navigation relies on swipes to move between screens, and users can pin apps for quick access to frequently used features.
Connected vehicles rely on internal networks such as the Controller Area Network (CAN) to manage vehicle functions. It is not yet clear whether Microsoft intends to integrate directly with vehicle systems to control features like climate settings or anti-lock braking.
The Car Connectivity Consortium’s MirrorLink standard allows mobile devices to connect to a vehicle’s infotainment system and display items such as contacts, calls, and messages. Rather than simply mirroring phone screens—which can distract drivers—Microsoft is emphasizing reduced cognitive load and safer interaction models.
One goal is to limit the amount of time drivers need to look at the screen. Microsoft’s design aims to minimize “eye time” to around two seconds or less for quick interactions, making information easier to consume without frequent glances away from the road.
Microsoft’s voice assistant, Cortana, is integrated into the concept to enable hands-free operation and further reduce the need to look at the display. Cortana can learn user preferences over time: predicting likely callers, anticipating destinations, and offering timely updates that may be relevant during a trip.
It remains uncertain when Windows for the car will reach production vehicles, but Microsoft is running tests in real cars and demonstrating the system publicly. Those developments suggest the company is actively preparing to expand its presence in the automotive space.
Would you embrace Windows in your vehicle?