Chevy Sonic, Spark to be the first cars out of GM to sport Siri’s ‘Eyes Free’ feature

During its opening keynote at the Worldwide Developers Conference, Apple announced Siri would gain an all-new “Eyes Free” feature as part of iOS 6. Eyes Free lets automakers include a button on their automobiles that allows drivers to initiate Siri for sending messages, making calls, setting reminders, launching apps, and accessing a slew of information from inside of the car without picking up the device. Apple revealed nine automakers will adopt Eyes Free, but it gave no more information. This evening, GM Authority reported that GM would be one of the first to include the technology in its automobiles. The company is starting with its Chevy Spark and Sonic, which are two compacts with a budget in mind. The publication could not provide an exact date of arrival for the technology in GM’s vehicles, but it should be available within the next year.

The Spark and Sonic now feature Chevy’s MyLink that allows drivers to connect their car with any smartphone. It has roughly 60 commands, which is not that much, but Siri could definitely add a long-list of commands for those who have an iOS device.

Eyes Free should resemble how other hands-free packages work on automobiles. An Eyes Free button will be included on the steering wheel, so users can activate and speak to any iPhone or iPad that is connected over Bluetooth. Siri will do all the processing work.

The other nine automakers announced as partners include BMW, Mercedes, Land Rover, Jaguar, Audi, Toyota, Chrysler, and Honda. We will look out for when more information becomes available over the next year. (via CNET)

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