Google on Wednesday unveiled its car-dedicated Android system dubbed ‘Android Auto’ at the Google I/O developers’ conference held in San Francisco.
“We’ve redesigned the Android platform for automotive,” Google Android Director of Engineering Patrick Brady said introducing the platform.
The Android Auto system will allow users to dictate directions, music, or communications without letting their hands off the steering wheel or their eyes off the road. To use the system, users will need to plug their smartphone to the car and the user’s smartphone screen will get mirrored on the car’s screen.
Users can interact with Android using the touchscreen or through voice commands. They can easily enter a destination with their voice, or speak to send messages or even initiate a phone call.
Android Auto also supports Google Maps and offers all Google Maps features like local search, personalized suggestions, live traffic information, and turn-by-turn navigation. The platform also integrates with other app partners including Pandora, Songza, Stitcher, Spotify, Pocket Casts, and Tune In Radio.
The Android Auto is the result of Open Automotive Alliance, a group of “technology and auto industry leaders” committed to bringing Android to cars in 2014. The goal of the alliance is to make “technology in the car safer, more seamless, and more intuitive for everyone.”
Google said that around 25 car brands have already signed up to ship their cars with Android Auto in the near future, and that the first vehicles with the Android interface installed will be shipped by 2014 end.
Google also revealed that the Android Auto SDK with full APIs for audio and messaging apps will be available for developers “soon” and that the platform will reach the public with the launch of the next-gen Android, dubbed ‘L.’
