Microsoft is investigating ways to incorporate technology lifted from its Xbox Kinect and Harman has unveiled a new system that recognizes hand and facial cues to control various cabin features. According to the system drivers can use eye blinks to turn the stereo on, tilt their heads to increase volume and even tap the steering wheel to skip songs. Temperature adjustment is taken care of by raising or lowering a hand above the gear shift, while pulling up a Bluetooth-connected phone is as simple as mimicking a phone with a hand.

The system relies on an infrared sensor and whenever a signal is passed to separate processor it in turn handles the connected hardware. However, the system isn’t foolproof and Harman has beat Microsoft with a system that recognizes facial and hand gestures. The company’s European division has unveiled a concept vehicle with a system that interprets nods, winks and hand movements to execute in-car commands. “It’s all about reducing distractions in the car,” Hans Roth, director of technology at Harman, said at a recent media event.

via autoblog