Yesteday took the Google I / O 2014, among the slew of announcements, interesting that we in the automotive world is obviously Android Auto.
The main competitor of Google, Apple, had last year announced iOS7 for cars, and in March Apple CarPlay , which is not an operating system itself integrated into the car, but most functionality deportation and applications on your smartphone screen to the car.
The principle is the same here with Android Auto: we will find all the features of Google Now, read SMS and emails, Maps, and appeals. The interface is touch control, and most importantly, full voice if desired (it seems that it is convenient to keep your eyes on the road!).
Remote applications will have a redesigned interface, SDK (Software Development Kit) will allow developers to offer compatible applications. Spotify, Stitcher, Pandora, and many others already work with this interface. So far, one has the impression of being a avecc similar to what Adam Opel offers, or the new trio 108/C1/Aygo system. But integration will be a better way (no need for a specific application, for example) and will not be limited to the display of the Maps application, the control will be vocal and scalability probably easier (apart update applications on the smartphone).
Hope that applications such as Coyote or Waze to help many motorists here will be the game.
The Auto Alliance Android already has 40 partners, including many car manufacturers such as Renault, Volvo, brands CAF group (except Ferrari) and VAG, Honda and others.
Small note: we note that many (all?) Manufacturers Alliance also with Apple CarPlay: dual compatibility for?
The last point is whether manufacturers will continue to offer integrated navigation systems or a smartphone become fully mandatory, unless it is optional as with many models now.
The first appearance of this system should be done by the end of 2014.
Finally, a small video showing the Android project Auto :