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Volvo has introduced a revamped infotainment system alongside its flagship electric vehicle, the EX90. This significantly updated interface, powered by Google, will also be available in the smaller EX30 electric vehicle. However, the enhanced infotainment will not be limited to newly released models; it will also be accessible to existing Volvo vehicles produced as far back as 2020, including the 2025 XC90.
The Swedish automaker plans to deliver a free over-the-air update this year that will provide the new infotainment system to late-model year Volvo cars equipped with Google built-in. The models set to receive this upgrade include the Volvo C40, XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, XC60, S90, V90, V90 Cross Country, and XC90, as long as they were originally fitted with Google’s Android operating system.
Volvo describes this as “one of the most comprehensive infotainment updates by any car manufacturer to date,” stating that the over-the-air update will extend the latest infotainment experience to approximately 2.5 million Volvo drivers globally.
The update introduces significant interface changes designed to minimize the number of taps needed to reach frequently used features. For instance, users will no longer have to switch back and forth between applications for navigation and music; a shortcut for the phone app will now be permanently featured on the home screen.
As part of its redesign, the 2025 XC90 includes a larger 11.2-inch free-standing center screen. However, the new infotainment system is adaptable and can be scaled for various display types and sizes, which probably explains why this update is being extended to millions of older vehicles.
Volvo’s initiative can be viewed as a gesture of goodwill towards its customers, akin to smartphone manufacturers like Apple and Samsung, who often provide several years of guaranteed updates for their devices to enhance longevity. Honda has also recently implemented a similar initiative by introducing Wireless CarPlay for previous-generation Accords. Given that the average car is about 60 times pricier than a high-end smartphone, such practices should ideally be more common within the automotive industry.
Cars are increasingly becoming the next platform for what could be termed a traditional computing experience, facilitated by advances in mobile operating systems. With Big Tech operating at a rapid pace compared to traditional automotive companies, it’s reassuring to know that, in the coming years, your relatively new Volvo won’t be stuck with an outdated infotainment system.
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