Automakers sign up to Apple 'Eyes Free' Siri button

Apple has announced that the leading carmakers have signed up for the addition of an ‘Eyes Free' button that will activate Siri for in-car Apple products.

Siri – the innovative voice activation system developed for the 4S, Apple's latest iPhone – can be activated by pressing a steering wheel mounted button and allows the driver to access the same information available when not driving.

Apple reported at its 2012 Worldwide Developer's Conference that Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Toyota, Land Rover, Jaguar, Chrysler and Honda have all signed up to offer Eyes Free within the next 12 months. General Motors has also signed up to the scheme despite the system's similarities to what the automaker already provides with its OnStar subscription service.

Ford has not signed up for the addition of the ‘Eyes Free' button as a result of its ongoing commitment to its Sync infotainment systems, developed in collaboration with Microsoft.

By Rufus Thompson