Rumor: Caddy to reveal voice-activated infotainment system

Cadillac will reveal a new infotainment system, and it's not just IntelliLink rebadged with a couple of cosmetic changes, according to automotive blog GMAuthority.

Chevrolet and Buick are starting to implement their new infotainment platforms in vehicles, but Cadillac's future communications system is still tightly under wraps. But not for long. The performance brand will soon introduce its new technology offering for its 2013 models, according to the blog's news source.

To date, the technology Cadillac is best known for is found under the hood--not on the dash. BMW, Mercedes, and Audi are rapidly integrating more technology inside the cabins, and to stay competitive with these luxury brands, Cadillac has been developing its own infotainment platform that is reportedly more advanced. The system will likely include most of the media and entertainment features of MyLink and IntelliLink, but it will also include voice activated control of other vehicle systems, such as climate, according to the article.

At the 2011 Computer Electronics Show, GM subsidiary OnStar demonstrated its capability with prototype communications features, such as video chat, in a Buick LaCrosse research vehicle outfitted with Verizon 4G connectivity.

A unique system for Cadillac is an interesting strategy to differentiate the brand from other GM lines. To elevate the Equus and make it more comparable to Audi, Mercedes, and BMW vehicles, Hyundai developed a custom head-unit for the luxury sedan. Unlike the touch-screen systems in other Hyundai vehicles, the Equus' information center uses a dial to select and input information, much like its tonier competitors Audi and BMW.

Cadillac's new system could be the best of all worlds. However, offering the driver too many ways to do everything was one of the downfalls of Ford's MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch systems. Time will soon tell if Caddy gets it right.

(Source: GMAuthority.com)