IBM completes integration deal

Apple Computer is set to collaborate with several car manufacturers to enable iPod integration. In some cases, a voice control capability for drivers will also be incorporated, PC Magazine reports.

Apple revealed that it would work with Acura, Audi, Honda and Volkswagen to link iPods to sound systems in their newest vehicle models, bringing the total number of car companies worldwide that provide iPod support to 15.

PC Magazine stated that Honda and Acura plan to support iPod integration with synthesised audio voice feedback, via a recently released Music Link adaptor. The new adaptor will connect the iPod to existing audio systems in a number of vehicle models, according to a press release from American Honda Motor Company.

It was also reported that a text-to-speech feedback function will read out information about individual tracks or audio controls, compensating for the fact that there is no actual text on the audio.

The Music Link adaptor will charge the iPod while playing digital tracks through the car`s stereo system. Users can select songs by artist, album, genre or playlist, via standard controls on the system head unit.

Beginning in November, Audi plans to provide iPod support for its A3, A4 and TT models. Volkswagen will offer the optional feature in most of its yet-to-be-released 2006 vehicles, PC Magazine said.

Over a dozen other car companies provide support for iPod integration, including Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo and more. Most of these companies utilise after-market iPod integration kits from companies like Kenwood and Alpine to provide the digital audio link.

IBM has finalised an agreement to acquire DWL, which will allow IBM to provide clients with customer data integration software, according to a company press statement.

The software will enable a single, integrated view of customer information spread across multiple product and business silos. This capability will allow businesses such as banks, insurance companies, retailers and manufacturers to leverage their customer data to help address business challenges such as regulatory compliance, optimising customer relationships, or integrating data from mergers and acquisitions.

The report states that the acquisition strengthens IBM`s information management software portfolio, which includes the company`s existing product information management software and enterprise data integration software.

The acquisition extends IBM`s master data management solutions by building on the company`s existing enterprise data integration and product information management software, a key part of IBM`s "information on demand" strategy.