Google secretly working on ‘Android M’, aims to connect cars directly to the Internet
In June Google Inc. announced Android Auto at Google I/O, starting the search giant’s big move into automobiles. Android Auto is not an embedded operating system; rather it provides a software layer that allows drivers to control their smartphones via the car’s infotainment screen and controls, regardless of the apps actually running on the phone. But, it does require that your phone is plugged into a compatible car.
A Reuters report yesterday revealed that according to unnamed sources, Google Inc. is working on a version of Android, called Android M, which would be built directly into a car. The interface and features will be very similar those of Android Auto, with the main difference being that no smartphone will be needed, allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of the Internet without the need to connect your phone. It is also likely that the system will have built-in LTE cellular connections, allowing it to take full advantage of what Android has to offer.
“With embedded it’s always on, always there,” said one of the sources. “You don’t have to depend on your phone being there and on.”
Android Auto can currently work alongside Apple CarPlay, Ford Sync, BMW’s iDrive and more, however with Android M, Google’s goal would be to replace all these systems. Time will tell if Google will be able to convince manufacturers to go the Android M route.
According to Mark Boyadjis, an analyst with industry research firm IHS Automotive, “Automakers want to keep their brand appeal and keep their differentiation. Automakers don’t want to have a state of the industry where you get in any vehicle and it’s just the same experience wherever you go.”
If Android M is successful, Google will be able to tap into a variety of vehicle data and could potentially make more use out of a vehicle’s fuel gauge, sensors and cameras.
“You can get access to GPS location, where you stop, where you travel every day, your speed, your fuel level, where you stop for gas,” one of the sources said.
Apple Inc. also entered the connected car arena in March, with the launch of CarPlay, but like Android Auto, it requires your smartphone to be connected to the car.
photo credit: speedbug via photopin cc
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