Android Auto integration enhances Volvo in-car experience by bringing in features and services familiar to Android smartphone and tablet users to transform the look and feel of a Volvo’s interior characterised by high-tech simplicity and functionality.
Android Auto facilitates access to Google Search, Google Maps, Google Play Music and adapted 3rd party apps like Spotify. Phone-based apps can be controlled via voice/steering wheel controls/touch screen for better safety and ease as both Volvo Cars and Android Auto content are displayed on screen simultaneously, eliminating the need need to switch screens. Android Auto is available on Volvo cars based on Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) starting with all-new XC90, which will be revealed at 2014 Paris Motor Show.
Hyundai’s work with Open Automotive Alliance (OAA) introduces Android Auto safely through its 4th gen touchscreen Audio Video Navigation (AVN) systems in select 2015 model year Hyundai models to be announced on a later date. OAA global alliance of technology and auto industry leaders is instrumental in bringing Android platform to cars starting in 2014.
Hyundai and Honda are founding members of the Open Automotive Alliance. For ease of use, Hyundai engineers applied core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness and simplicity to Android Auto implementation. Android Auto and Hyundai’s AVN software enhances how an Android phone can be used in a vehicle by connecting their phone to Android Auto via a USB port.
Hyundai AVN systems’ 8″ touchscreen and microphone are integrated seamlessly with Android Auto for users to easily identify their Android phone apps to eliminate switching screens as apps and services have been optimized for the car.
Honda and Acura will introduce select vehicles compatible with Android Auto in 2015 and is at present displaying a functional prototype at Google I/O 2014, San Francisco. Honda drivers need only to connect their Android smartphone to the vehicle’s USB port to access Android apps and features through the car’s in-dash display and voice controls. Honda has been helping make drivers more alert over the years and introduced a hands-free telephone functionality early on apart from wide application of back-up cameras in its cars by model year 2015, among other safety features.
Volkswagen is now a member of the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA) making the announcement at Google I/O developers’ conference this week. In regards to seamless integration of Android devices into cars OAA refers to Android Auto as the choicest platform. Being optimised for driver needs, Android Auto reduces possible distraction so drivers can keep their eyes on the road.
