Android hits the road with the Open Auto Alliance
Google has launched the Open Auto Alliance (OAA) initiative to bring the Android operating system into vehicles.
The search engine giant has teamed with Audi, Honda, General Motors and Hyundai to launch the OAA, which will help accelerate Android innovation in the motorcar market.
Aiming to making switching between screens a seamless experience, Google wants to introduced Android connected vehicles to its product portfolio.
“Google has teamed up with automotive and technology leaders Audi, GM, Honda, Hyundai and Nvidia to form the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA), a global alliance aimed at accelerating auto innovation with an approach that offers openness, customisation and scale”, said Patrick Brady, Director of Android Engineering at Google on the official blog .
The first Android vehicle was originally showcased back in 2010 and ran on Android 2.1, however the system never made it to full integration. Initially Android was used to access real-time traffic reports and basic web access, but we expect Google has far greater plans with OAA.
“Together with our OAA partners, we're working to enable new forms of integration with Android devices, and adapting Android for the car to make driving safer, easier and more enjoyable for everyone. Putting Android in the car will bring drivers apps and services they already know and love, while enabling automakers to more easily deliver cutting-edge technology to their customers.”
With the OAA, Google will bring your favourite music, apps and other Android content to your car’s dashboard, all controlled via the car’s in-built controls and display panel.
We expect hands-free controls will be a major feature, as we doubt Google will want to encourage distracting drivers’ eyes from the road.
Although there are only five companies on board with OAA at the moment, Google says it will welcome other car manufacturers and tech companies to join in order to “build a common platform to drive innovation in the car and bring Android to the open road.”
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