Google is shaking up the automotive industry with its latest advancements in the Android Auto and Google built-in software for cars. Despite concerns about the safety of mobile interfaces on car displays, Google is forging ahead, expanding its business stakes in the automotive segment.
Android Auto, a mobile app that mirrors Android devices on a car’s dashboard, is now compatible with “nearly” every major car brand and is currently installed in over 200 million cars on the road. The company has announced that more Android features are on the horizon for even more car models.
At CES 2024, Google unveiled the next wave of features for the Android automotive platform, showcasing the exciting enhancements coming to Android Auto and cars equipped with the “Google built-in” software stack. This software, also known as Android Automotive, is Google’s own automotive operating system installed directly in cars.
One of the most significant announcements at CES was Google’s revelation that electric vehicles (EVs) compatible with Android Auto will soon be able to share real-time battery information with Google Maps. This update aims to make driving EVs more convenient, as Google Maps will provide the estimated battery charge remaining after reaching a destination, as well as suggest charging stops along the way. This feature, which will initially be available for the Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning, is expected to be rolled out for other car models in the coming months.
In addition to battery information sharing, Google Maps will also estimate the duration of the charging process for specific vehicles, providing EV drivers with crucial information for planning their journeys. Furthermore, owners of cars with Google built-in software can seamlessly send planned trips from Google Maps on their Android or iOS phones directly to their car’s display, streamlining the transition from planning to navigating.
Google is also integrating its Chrome web browser into select cars equipped with the Google built-in software, allowing drivers to stay connected, informed, and entertained while on the go. Access to the web browser will be initially available in some Polestar and Volvo cars, with plans to expand to additional models later in the year. Google emphasizes that using the browser for tasks such as shopping or accessing saved bookmarks while the vehicle is parked will not compromise safety.
Furthermore, Android Automotive vehicles are gaining access to content from popular platforms such as PBS Kids and Crunchyroll, providing entertainment options for both children and adults. Additionally, the Weather Channel app will be integrated into the Google built-in software by popular demand, delivering hourly forecasts and alerts on weather conditions directly to the car’s dashboard.
Google has also highlighted the growing support from various brands and developers for Android Auto and its range of helpful apps and services. The digital car key feature, which offers a convenient way to unlock a car using an Android phone, will be introduced in select Volvo cars. Moreover, the Google built-in software will expand to include Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln models in the coming year, offering a broader array of vehicles equipped with Google’s automotive operating system.
By pushing the boundaries of technology and seamless integration, Google is redefining the driving experience for millions of car owners. As the automotive industry continues to embrace innovation, Google’s presence in the sector is poised to exert a significant impact on the future of driving. With the promise of enhanced connectivity, entertainment, and practical features, Google’s expansion in the automotive space is set to usher in a new era of driving convenience and enjoyment.
