A voice-controlled system for providing digital audio content in an automobile
is presented. The system comprises a CPU unit that includes a microprocessor programmed
to decode and deliver digital media such as MP3s and ebooks to a listener. The
CPU unit also includes a storage device for storing the media, RAM and a power
supply. The storage device is a "plug-in" unit, such as a hard disc drive, that
may be removed and inserted into a home computer for downloading media. The system
is controlled using a voice-based input device that interfaces with the CPU unit.
The voice-based device is operative to control in a hands-free manner, for example,
the selection of the media to be delivered and the volume at which the media is
delivered. A display and control unit is suitable for mounting on the dashboard
of an automobile and provides an alternative to voice control of the system. The
display and control unit also provides a scroll-through list of the available media
and information about the media being played such as the title, the artist, the
volume at which it is being played and a sound spectrum analysis.