Need a way to access those Google Docs outside of the native interface? IDrive Online Backup has unveiled its free software that does just that. IDrive Connect allows folks who fancy the document-sharing platform to access files as if they were resting in a folder on their PC -- in a DropBox-esque fashion. The application enables drag-and-drop capabilities for easy upload, conversion for popular document types to the Google Docs format and file sharing directly within the Connect interface. If that wasn't enough, you can also save those Google Docs to an existing IDrive account, which offers up to 5GB of backup / storage (not just documents, either) at no cost. If you're looking for all the details, hit the PR below or take a gander and the source links to download the app and get started.

BMWs aren't exactly lacking for technology these days, but it looks like the new 2010 models come packing a little something extra to make your life even easier. As Nuance Communications is all too happy to announce itself, the new vehicles boast an improved voice control system from the company that promises to allow for a "more conversational dialogue between drivers and BMW navigation and entertainment systems." That, naturally, gets paired with BMW's own iDrive system, and includes some Sync-like abilities to search for music by voice, as well as a new "One-Shot Destination Entry" feature to let folks enter a destination address in one simple voice command. It can even apparently recognize several different language in parallel, letting a French-speaking driver, for instance, search for a German song title or English album title.

It looks like BMW's sometimes derided iDrive system is about to get another boost in features / complexity, with the automaker now apparently readying a whole slew of features that'll add even more customization options to cars using the system. That will apparently include everything from screen savers and sound effects to tweaks in transmission shift points and engine boost levels, which could be customized to either increase fuel economy or improve overall performance. What's more, those changes will apparently be able to be made from any internet-connected computer in addition to from inside the car itself, and you'll be able to save multiple profiles that'll be automatically activated whenever an individual's key fob is in close proximity. Be sure to hit up the read link below for the long list of new features.

[Via Autoblog]