CES 2014: Google Brings Android To Cars Through Open Automotive Alliance

Google has announced that it is bringing its Android operating system to motor vehicles via its Open Auto Alliance (OAA) project. Looking to introduce closer integration between the world of in-car and mobile technology, the search giant has already enlisted several major car manufacturers, including Audi, GM, Honda, and Hyundai, with more to come in the future.

Google will work with chip manufacturer Nvidia, whose latest Tegra K1 processor will be facilitating the technology, to embed its Android OS into cars later this year. The project will allow users to access apps and services such as satellite navigation, voice control, or media, from a synced mobile device via their vehicle’s dashboard.

Driving innovation forward

In an announcement, the OAA said it is looking to create a common platform that will drive innovation and in turn make cars, “safer and more intuitive for everyone.”

“Millions of people are already familiar with Android and use it every day,” said Sundar Pichai, SVP of Android, Chrome and apps at Google.

“The expansion of the Android platform into automotive will allow our industry partners to more easily integrate mobile technology into cars and offer drivers a familiar, seamless experience so they can focus on the road.”

In a blog post, Patrick Brady, Director, Android Engineering, explained that the OAA also aims to make the switch from one device to another more seamless, as modern cars increasingly feature integrated apps and operating systems, with Google pushing to ensure its services become popularised, similar to the Open Handset Alliance, which was integral in popularising the Android OS into handsets. The company also announced yesterday that its Google Glass technology will be able to operate some operational aspects of Hyundai’s upcoming Genesis vehicle.

Google claims that the first cars to feature this technology will hit the road later this year.

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