It was bad news for Apple fans last week, as Volvo announced plans to join the Open Automotive Alliance to make the Android smartphone operating system available to drivers through a new and ground-breaking user interface.
That doesn’t mean you won’t be able to connect your latest iPhone to your new Volvo, but the system is set to offer Anroid users a host of new features that should make driving easier, more enjoyable and most importantly – safer.
The integration of Android Auto, which is owned, provided and supported by Google, promises to add applications such as Google search, Google Maps, Google Play Music, as well as specially adapted third party applications such as Spotify.
What’s more, you’ll be able to control other phone-based applications via voice recognition or the car’s central touchscreen – ensuring all interaction with the system is both safe and easy.
Hakan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars, said: “Google’s approach to user-centricity and the application of technology improve peoples’ everyday lives makes Android Auto a perfect addition to the Volvo experience.
“We’ve worked hard to ensure an enjoyable user experience with Android Auto. This will offer our customers a new degree of fluidity and accessibility in the usage of their mobile devices.”
Android Auto will eventually be available across the Volvo range, with the Swedish car maker kicking off with the eagerly anticipated new Volvo XC90 SUV.
The car will be publically unveiled at the Paris Motor Show and will feature a revolutionary portrait style touchscreen – allowing users to interact with both Android Auto and Volvo’s own operating system at the same time.
It’s not all doom and gloom for Apple users, though. From next year, Volvo cars will also include Apple CarPlay in all new models based on the company’s Scalable Product Architecture – kicking off with the new XC90.
This will make it possible for Apple users to connect their phones direct to the car’s touchscreen display, though exact compatibility and features are yet to be disclosed.
