During Google I/O this year, a series of enhancements were revealed for Android on Cars, encompassing both Android Automotive OS, the platform designed for integrated infotainment systems, and Android Auto, the application that mirrors phone content.
Before delving deeper into the specifics, Google disclosed that there are currently over 200 million automobiles on the streets that are compatible with Android Auto. In addition, nearly 40 vehicle models offer Google built-in – this feature is available in Volvo cars marketed in Malaysia.
The primary focus of the announced enhancements surrounds Google built-in infotainment systems, with select vehicles poised to receive new streaming applications such as Max (HBO) and Peacock. The introduction of the Angry Birds game will also contribute to expanding the entertainment choices accessible to users.
Another progress is the upcoming incorporation of Google Cast in vehicles hosting Android Automotive OS, commencing with Rivian and to be extended to more vehicles in the future. This functionality is currently prevalent in products like smart TVs and Chromecast, facilitating users to seamlessly project video content from a smartphone or tablet directly onto the vehicle’s screen while parked.
Concerning Android Auto, Google has announced the availability of an Uber Driver application allowing drivers to accept ride requests and deliveries, as well as obtain turn-by-turn navigation on a larger display. Earlier this year, the company confirmed plans to integrate AI-driven features into Android Auto.
For developers, new tools have been introduced to simplify the creation of fresh applications and experiences for Android Auto, including the ‘Car ready mobile apps’ initiative aimed at expediting the adaptation of mobile applications for vehicles without requiring additional efforts.
Applications and experiences will be categorized into new quality tiers based on their integration and adaptability levels. The first tier, recognized as ‘car differentiated’, epitomizes the best possibilities in vehicles, with applications designed specifically to function across various car hardware and to adjust their usage during driving or parking modes.
The second tier, ‘car optimized’, encompasses most applications currently available in vehicles, featuring some car-specific design to incorporate functionalities usable in driving or parked modes, contingent on the application’s category. Lastly, we have ‘car ready’, which includes applications that might lack car-specific features yet are compatible with large vehicle screens.
Google has also supplied a useful table assisting developers in identifying open app categories that accept app submissions for both Android Auto and vehicles integrated with Google built-in.
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