That invention, sometimes described as covering "data tapping, " allows users to grab data embedded in an unstructured form, like an address, and use it in another phone application, such as mapping.

WSJ: Android Faces Setback in iPhone Battle

As expected, Apple also is developing its own GPS-based mapping application to replace Google Maps in iOS 6.

CNN: Apple announces high-res laptops, a smarter Siri

Microsoft has a long history of delivering platforms and services to the automotive market, including in-car infotainment systems built on the Windows Embedded Automotive platform, in-car mapping services with Bing and the Microsoft Tellme voice application, and many other consumer solutions.

ENGADGET: Microsoft and Toyota to partner on smarter charging systems for EVs (update: yes)