Honda, Audi, Hyundai and Volvo to get Android platform soon

With electronic interface becoming an integral part of personalising vehicles, Audi, Honda, Hyundai and Volvo will be powered by Android Auto in the near future. At Google I/O, Google’s annual developer conference held recently, the company announced that it will stretch its reaches beyond smart phones. Android Auto provides a seamless link between your android smart phone and your car’s infotainment system. Android Auto happens to be the first technical know-how from Open Automotive Alliance, a collection of technology companies and industry leaders from the world of automobile manufacturers ready to bring Android platform for their consumers.

Honda is yet another manufacturer equipping their cars with customer friendly technologies. Honda drivers will simply connect their compatible Android smart phone to the vehicle's USB port using the cable that came with their phone. This would allow them to access supported applications and features using the car's in-dash display and voice controls. Nick Sugimoto, Senior Program Director, Honda Silicon Valley Lab states, "By working collaboratively with Google and other technology companies, Honda will help millions of consumers around the world more easily and conveniently access their smart phones' content, data and features."

Audi will link this to its Audi MMI infotainment system through which a driver will be able to project applications and services optimised for voice commands. Android Auto helps motorists move the access point for information from the palm of their hand to the built-in displays of their cars allowing hands to remain on the steering wheel and eyes on the road. Once connected to a compatible Audi, drivers will see a prompt asking if they want their apps to function through the MMI touch display and controls.

Hyundai’s fourth generation touch screen Audio Video Navigation (AVN) systems will be able to connect directly to the features on your compatible Android smart phone. Paul Choo, Director, Silicon Valley Accelerator Lab says “The goal is to provide a smarter and safer way to use smart phone technology and convenience in cars. Android Auto helps us reach that goal.” Users will instantly become familiar with interface and recognise their most used features such as messaging, phone, Google Play Music and Google Maps.

Volvo intends to bring the Android platform with its new ground-breaking user interface. All phone-based applications can be controlled via voice or steering wheel controls or the car’s touch screen ensuring the entire interaction with Android Auto content is both safe and easy. “Google’s approach to user-centricity and the application of technology to improve peoples’ everyday lives makes Android Auto a perfect addition to the Volvo experience,” said Hakan Samuelsson, President and CEO, Volvo Cars.