When it comes to automobile entertainment, Android is the new sheriff in town. A variety of carmakers are starting to roll out cars that come with the Android operating system installed, which means a world of new possibilities for drivers. From streaming music and movies to GPS navigation and interactive displays, Android can do it all.
Read on for an overview of Android automobile technology if you’re shopping for a new vehicle or just interested in the future of driving.
Clear the Confusion: Android Auto and Android Automotive
Android Automotive and Android Auto are not the same. While both offer a variety of mapping and in-car entertainment capabilities, Android Auto is powered by your phone and projected onto the car’s display. In contrast, Android Automotive runs on the car’s own processor. The advantage of having this built-in system is that it can also regulate many of the vehicle’s functions and your entertainment.
When an Android phone is linked to a compatible vehicle, the Android Auto platform takes over the primary display. You can modify non-entertainment settings while in the vehicle’s own operating system. Everything is run from one system with Android Automotive. Therefore, you can quickly switch between automobile and entertainment settings – and handle them all using Google Assistant voice control.
Android Automotive – Features:
Google Maps is the default navigation system, with voice guidance and live traffic updates.
You can use your voice to control all the features of Android Auto, including music playback, making calls, sending messages, and more. If you have an assistant-enabled device like Google Home or Amazon Echo, you can control many of your car’s functions from outside of it.
You can stream audio from compatible apps on your phone over Bluetooth to the car’s speakers.
Android Automotive – Design:
The main screen in Android Auto is called the “Driver Information Interface,” or DII. It sits in the car’s dashboard and gives you access to all of the features of Android Auto. The DII can be customized to show only the information you need while driving. You can also control how much information is shown on the screen and how bright it is.
Android Automotive – Apps:
A growing number of apps are compatible with Android Auto, including Spotify, Audible, NPR One, and WhatsApp.
These apps have been specifically designed to work with Android Auto and take advantage of its features.
For example, Audiobooks from Audible lets you listen to audiobooks while you’re driving. You can control playback, speed, and more without ever taking your hands off the wheel.
Android Automotive – In Use:
The Android Automotive platform, by far, is the most natural. It feels like it’s part of the car rather than a supplement. Switching between setting changes and music feels as easy as pie. We can’t say the same for CarPlay, which feels a little clunky in comparison.
It’s important to note that to utilize the Android Automotive platform, you’ll need an Android phone running Android Oreo (or higher).
Ending Note:
Android Automotive is the future of car technology. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, it’s essential to consider cars that have this innovative system.
Mike Patton Ford Lincoln is proud to serve Corinth, GA, and we would be happy to help you find the perfect car with Android Automotive. Contact us today to learn more about our inventory and how we can help you apply for credit.
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