Honda announces Siri Eyes Free integration for 3 car models, promises more by December

Along with Honda models like the Accord, the Japanese car maker's high-end marque Acura will be introducing Siri Eyes Free in its RDX and ILX models as an aftermarket add-on to be installed at the dealership. Honda first announced upcoming availability in January.

"Honda recognizes the power of Siri Eyes Free to meet connectivity and convenience needs of its customers in a responsible manner," said Honda's vice president of product planning and logistics Art St. Cyr. "With technology becoming further integrated into people's lives, we are happy to provide next-generation connectivity and meet our customer's ever-changing needs.

According to Honda, the company had to reengineer its proprietary HondaLink and AcuraLink connected car software to interface with Siri Eyes Free, allowing Apple's system access to the car's speakers and microphone.

Apple's Siri Eyes Free functionality allows owners of compatible vehicles to perform a variety of in-car tasks without taking their eyes off the road. For example, users can tell Siri to send and text messages or emails, create calendar events and reminders, activate turn-by-turn navigation and more.

In addition, Siri Eyes Free keeps an iPhone's display off during tasks so as not to distract the driver.

Honda will also be announcing additional models on Dec. 3 via a Google hangout session.

Apple's Siri Eyes Free was first introduced in June 2012 at the company's Worldwide Developers Conference with nine auto makers pledging support for the platform. Chevrolet was first to bring the technology to market with its Spark and Sonic models in February and, citing "remarkable" customer response, announced an expansion to the program that will cover