Driving a new Mercedes-Benz CLA now enables in-car Teams video conferencing capability.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA has taken a significant leap forward in automotive innovation, becoming the first car to offer video meetings while driving. This groundbreaking development is the result of a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft, which has integrated the Microsoft Meetings for Teams app into the car's built-in hardware [1][2][4].
The latest Microsoft workspace tools, such as Microsoft Teams, will be integrated directly into the new Mercedes-Benz operating system (MB OS). This integration allows drivers to join video calls while on the move, using the vehicle's built-in camera to display themselves on video meetings [1][2][3][4]. For safety reasons, shared screen visibility is disabled during driving.
The partnership also brings Microsoft productivity tools, including Microsoft Intune for enterprise-grade security and Microsoft 365 Copilot for AI-driven assistance. This enables users to manage tasks, emails, and meeting preparations hands-free via voice commands [1][2][4]. The CLA model's in-car camera is unique in offering real-time video participation during meetings while driving.
The MB.OS integration allows for seamless switching between productivity applications like Notes and Calendar within a secured enterprise ecosystem managed by Microsoft Intune. Microsoft 365 Copilot embedded in the car uses advanced AI to help users prepare for meetings by summarizing emails and retrieving client information without distraction [1][2][3][4].
Further plans include the integration of Microsoft's 365 Copilot function into the CLA, making it one of the first cars to use generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) [3]. The collaboration aims to enable drivers to prepare for meetings by having emails summarized, getting client details, and managing administrative tasks while on the move [1].
Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, stated that the collaboration makes it easier for customers to stay productive while on the move [5]. Drivers will be visible to other meeting participants, but cannot see video footage of other participants when the vehicle is in motion due to road traffic legislation [2]. The in-car camera can be turned off if desired [2].
The Mercedes-Benz CLA uses the marque's latest MB OS operating system, which has been designed to create an intuitive and safe user experience that boosts efficiency and reduces distractions [5]. Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft are planning to integrate the 365 Copilot AI software into future operating systems [3].
Sources: [1] https://www.mercedes-benz.com/innovation/mb-teams/ [2] https://www.wired.com/story/mercedes-benz-microsoft-teams-car-office/ [3] https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/mercedes-benz-teams-up-microsoft-integrate-365-copilot-into-car-tech [4] https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/mercedes-benz-microsoft-teams-integration-mbos/ [5] https://www.theverge.com/2021/12/14/22845144/mercedes-benz-microsoft-teams-integration-mbos-ai-office-car-productivity
- The Mercedes-Benz CLA, now equipped with video meeting capabilities, paves the way for electric cars as it becomes the first to offer such feature during driving.
- The car's built-in camera will display drivers on video meetings, although sharing screen visibility is disabled during driving for safety reasons.
- The partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft has also integrated productivity tools like Microsoft Intune and Microsoft 365 Copilot for hands-free vehicle management.
- With the integration of Microsoft 365 Copilot AI software, the CLA model will be one of the first cars to use generative artificial intelligence for meeting preparation.
- Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of management at Mercedes-Benz, stated that this collaboration simplifies productivity for customers while on the move.
- Future operating systems from Mercedes-Benz are planning to integrate the 365 Copilot AI software, allowing drivers to manage tasks, emails, and meetings hands-free using gadgets like smartphones and other technology.
