The Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI)

Press Release

Audi will be demonstrating its ideas on the future shape of interaction between man, machine and information technology, in the form of a pioneering working exhibit at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show. In doing this, it is anticipating the prospects for the customised networking of cars with the Internet. Infotainment is an artificial word used to denote forms of electronic information and entertainment. These include radio and CD, navigation systems, telephones and telematics. The general trend towards even greater mobility and communication means that the range of such functions is likewise continuing to expand. Digital radio, MP3 and DVD video are just three of many new options. However, operating the current range of functions has already reached a level of complexity that many users find off-putting. One of the main reasons is that the individual devices each have specific, distinctive display and operating concepts. The user is thus confronted with a confusing mass of interfaces. Whenever the driver wants to use a desired function - the reason for its very presence in the car - he has to go through a substantial learning process, which has to be repeated for every single device. The integration of yet more functions would result in overburdening him, thus potentially undermining road safety. This necessitates an entirely new form of operating concept, which will integrate ideally all the electronic systems in the vehicle, and thus significantly reduce the driver's workload. The progress that has been made in the field of network technology through the use of CAN-bus systems, MOST technology (media oriented systems transport) - an optical high-speed databus system with optical fibres - and the use of a high-performance computer unit for menu guidance constitute the technical boundary conditions. These permit the essential combining of the user interfaces for all components at one central point. The Audi Multi-Media-Interface (MMI), which will be on display at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, is based on these requirements. There was close coordination between ergonomics, technology and design throughout the development process. The outcome is a universal, customer-friendly interface design that uses a consistent operating logic. It uses touch, sight and sound, e.g. in the form of voice control, to allow the driver to handle information as efficiently as possible.