Harman Adds More Voice to Toyota Telematics System

Harman, a provider of premium audio and infotainment solutions, has developed an exclusive addition to its voice-enabled Toyota Touch & Go and Toyota Touch & Go Plus multimedia systems.

New functionality in the systems includes text-to-speech/SMS messaging support through Touch & Go Plus, that can read messages aloud to the driver. Customizable templates let users respond to messages as well. Additional functionality includes 3D city views, advanced voice recognition, integrated email and calendar options, and a "play more like this" music function.

Through a dedicated application delivery platform, Toyota drivers now can take advantage of additional content and further applications to run on Harman's navigation unit. To access the new functions, the user visits the Toyota Customer Portal, where he can choose between full system application software downloads and smaller applications. After downloading the applications onto an USB stick, the car system can be updated immediately.

For the official launch, five applications will be available: Fuel allows the driver to check prices at nearby gas stations. Weather provides a weather forecast for selected destinations. Parking contains important information for the driver on free parking grounds and checks the availability upfront. Glass of Water is a driving coach from Toyota that helps save fuel by driving more economically.Park & Go provides last-mile navigation directions to a specific destination, sets reminders to avoid expired parking, and reminders for where he has parked his vehicle. Other applications will be added over time.

The Toyota Touch & Go system recently debuted in the Toyota Yaris, Verso S, Avensis, and Hilux models. New additions are the Prius, Verso, Auris, and Rav4. The base system incorporates an AM/FM radio, CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, USB port, trip information screen, and rear view camera. The existing touchscreen-based system can also be upgraded to offer full map satellite navigation with enhanced functions such as advanced traffic overage, customizable speed limits and safety camera warnings, as well as access to a range of downloadable connected information services.