During the Google I/O 2014 Keynote speech, Patrick Brady, director of engineering for Android, announced Android Auto.
Google has taken into account the number of accidents that occur as a result of drivers using a mobile device. They believe there must be a better, safer way to stay connected while you are in your car.
To start, Google examined what drivers’ most frequently did with their phones and their car’s infotainment screen. This allowed them to focus on navigation, music streaming and communications.
The Android Auto system is completely voice activated and also works with the car’s steering wheel-mounted controls allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road more often.
Android Auto works by simply connecting your Android device to your car. All of the apps on the info screen are then mirrored from the device. This makes your car’s infotainment system extremely easy to keep up-to-date and personalize. Since all of the apps live on the phone, they will be updated every time the phone is.
The magnitude of different automobile infotainment platforms and standards has made this venture impossible in the past. Through the Open Automotive Alliance, of which Google is a founding member, they have created the Android Auto SDK to allow developers to focus on what they do best – creating useful, high quality apps. This will be available to developers soon.
The Open Automotive Alliance includes 40 auto manufacturers and suppliers and we should see the first cars able to run Android Auto by the end of the year. Also, with several third party suppliers amongst the group, aftermarket kits should become available not long after.
What do you think about Google’s announcement? Are you looking forward to having Android Auto in your car?
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