Android Automotive: how it works and on which car it is present
Android Automotive
The most modern cars are characterized by the presence of infotainment systems compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, two systems that allow our smartphone to interface with the car display without completely replacing its functions. Also available in wireless mode, only on some models, they can basically be used on any car that has at least one central display dedicated to entertainment. Google currently offers an operating system for smartphones, Android, one for smartwatches, Wear OS, but for cars?Volvo XC40 For some months Android Automotive (AAOS) has been mentioned , a variant of the Android operating system designed specifically for cars and vehicles. Unlike Android Auto, which we specify once again as not being an operating system, the Automotive declination aims to merge almost entirely with the characteristics of the car, with the aim of interfacing with every single element. Born in March 2017, Android Automotive was developed by several hands; in addition to Big G, Intel and some manufacturers such as Audi and Volvo worked on the project. Being a real operating system, like Android for smartphones, it aims to be widely customized not only aesthetically but also in terms of functions.| ); }
Android Automotive: how does the experience change?
Android has always offered a highly intuitive and functional interface; in addition, thanks to the huge availability of apps on the Play Store, it allows you to have full control over any service or action. The same user experience is therefore present on cars, with a clean GUI and high flexibility in terms of applications.The now boundless ecosystem of Android is one of the winning cards: so as on smartphones, yes they can download new apps for different uses and purposes. At present, only some applications are available and compatible, but greater availability is expected in the future, if not the adoption of a new Play Store specifically dedicated to the automotive sector.
At present, compatible applications and ready-to-use are as follows:
Unlike smartphones which tend to update themselves as soon as data traffic is available and therefore slow down even dramatically, cars are equipped with "garage mode" which allows constant monitoring of the operating system and applications. The idea behind the garage mode is that the car, parked in the garage overnight, can enter a specific state and download all the necessary updates while still connected to the network. With this strategy, Google aims to have an operating system that is always secure, updated and responsive.
No Chrome
Recently, Google introduced the first browser dedicated to Android Automotive and, unlike than imagined, it is not the well-known Chrome. Those who have AAOS available can rely on the Vivaldi browser, an application focused on privacy and security. For example, the tabs can only be opened if the car is parked and the videos, with the vehicle in motion, are played only with audio to avoid distractions while driving. Furthermore, the browser does not store any navigation data to prevent further drivers from accessing sensitive data.Why should a manufacturer prefer Android Automotive?
The reason is quite simple: greater integration with Google's systems and services and , perhaps, a savings in creating your own operating systems. For better or worse, all modern cars have their own operating system which, however, is unlikely to offer a user experience close to that of Big G. For this reason, Volvo, Renault and Ford have already embraced AAOS and, in the future, other manufacturers will follow the same strategy.Availability
Who likes Android Automotive? At the moment the car operating system is liked by a handful of manufacturers but more widespread adoption is expected in the future. With the aim and desire to create a sort of "smartphone on wheels", at present only Volvo and Renault have embraced this operating system. More specifically, the only road models to adopt this OS are:2020 Polestar 2; 2021 Volvo XC40 P8; 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge; 2022 GMC Hummer EV; 2022 Renault Megane E-Tech Electric; 2022 Volvo XC60; 2022 Volvo S90; 2022 Volvo V90; 2022 Volvo V90 Cross Country; 2023 BMW: various models, at the moment there are no clear details about it. Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, Audi and Honda are also expected to join the project in the next few years, although it still remains a mystery as to which models Google's software will actually be available.
