Microsoft Corp. and Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group have partnered together to build a music and information system to rival Ford Motor Co.'s SYNC system. The system is set to debut in cars sold in North America in 2010.

Hyundai is the first major Asian automaker to commit to using the Microsoft Auto platform with the goal of bringing these systems worldwide.

The infotainment systems will be a voice-controlled interface linking mobile devices to car stereo systems, with the ability for new functionality through software updates via the USB port - much like Ford SYNC. Later versions are expected to include multimedia and navigation-related features, said Microsoft/Hyundai.

Hyundai-Kia will first introduce vehicles in North America in 2010 and expand to the Asian and European regions shortly afterwards.

As I predicted, this is only the beginning. The product deal marks a win for Microsoft and you can bet that we will see more of these partnerships with other automakers in the future. Microsoft Auto systems - which are essentially mini-PCs - are currently available in Fiat in Europe and South America, and in Ford in North America.

With automakers like BMW and Chrysler working to bring Internet access to vehicles, the market for car-based information and data systems is expected grow rapidly in coming years, and Microsoft plans to be part of this movement.