For anyone who is not familiar with Android Auto, it was announced at Google I/O last June, and essentially is a telematics standard that has been developed by Google which allows users to connect their Android device to their vehicles to give them functionality including music playback, reading of text messages, telephony and also the ability to search the Internet with the emphasis on the use of voice commands to ensure safe driving. In the future Android Auto can be used to access car data, allowing users to get an idea of how well their car might or might not being performing.
Various car manufacturers including Audi, Ford, Honda, Kia, Masterati, Volvo and many more have signed up to use the Android Auto system which is also part of the Open Automotive Alliance that was announced on January 6, 2014, and is a joint effort with 28 automobile manufacturers in total and mobile tech supplier Nvidia. Currently in the US, Android Auto head units are available and fitted to selected vehicles, the problem is that there has been no supported app available for smartphones that will allow them to connect and interact with the vehicles multimedia system.
However now, for users who have purchased a vehicle that features Android Auto, you’ll be pleased to know that the dedicated companion app required to get it all working, has now been made available on Google’s Play Store.
At the moment, the app is only available in the US region (probably because Android Auto is currently only available in the US) however if you do happen to be outside the US and have a vehicle that supports Android Auto, you can only side-load the app onto your Android smartphone, the only requirements is that your device is running Lollipop which is essential.
I’m sure you’ll agree, Android Auto is a great idea in allowing users to stay connected and communicate while on the move, fingers crossed we will be seeing more and more cars featuring the new technology over the next few years.