Both Honda and Acura announced this morning that both would be integrating the hotly anticipated Apple Siri “Eyes Free” into a select few of their vehicles this year.
As soon as the systems are in place, 2013 Honda and Acura owners with an iPhone running iOS 6 will be able to call upon Siri to execute a number of tasks all the while keeping the iPhone screen from lighting up. This allows the driver to keep his or her hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road.
What are these tasks and how will specifically will Siri be integrated into the Honda and Acura infotainment systems? According to Honda Public Relations Manager Robyn Eagles, “Siri Eyes Free Mode will allow users to speak in their natural voice to perform a host of communication tasks, including make calls from a phone list, create text and email messages, and have incoming texts read to them via voice commands without having to interact with their phone’s visual display.”
The Honda and Acura vehicles scheduled to see the Eyes Free integration are the newest in the lineup: the Accord from Honda; and the RDX and the ILX from Acura.
So far, nine automakers have signed agreements with Apple to include Siri Eyes Free into their infotainment systems: BMW, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Jaguar, Audi, Toyota, Honda, and Chrysler. Honda, the parent company of Acura, appears to be the first to the game with this announcement.
How and when other automakers will massage Siri into their pre-existing systems has yet to be seen. As soon as more information is learned, we’ll be sure to bring it to you.
