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Google’s Android Auto to Get Rid of the Smartphone Soon

Smartphones are starting to blend in the automotive world as Google and Apple are working to integrate them into the car’s infotainment system. But it seems that will be just one of the options, because Google, at least, is said to be working on a new operating system dedicated for automotive use, ditching the need of an attached phone.
Android Auto interface 1 photo
Photo: Google
According to a Reuters report, sources close to Google’s affairs said the Internet giant is putting the base for a new version of Android that will be embedded directly into vehicles’ infotainment systems.

Of course, Google declined to provide details or a schedule for this new gizmo, but word is it could roll out along with the company’s next operating system, a.k.a. the Android M, which should arrive in about a year.

Google account and Internet could play a huge role here

It’s hard to tell how the new Android infotainment system will be, but if it really won’t be backed up by a smartphone it will surely need Internet access. And along with that, you’ll most likely need to provide your Google account to gain access to stuff that you may need.

It could be just like your tablet from home, but it will be screwed down to the car’s dashboard instead. And if that requires your accounts to verify emails or access your Planner for example, it could work the same inside your vehicle.

Details are more than scarce, so maybe the sources were referring to the fact that the infotainment won’t simply mirror your phone, but your phone could be connected to it via Bluetooth to use the aforementioned apps plus calling and messaging features.

Android Auto so far

The recently rolled out Android Auto is a simple interface that mirrors some of your smartphone’s functions right on the vehicle’s touchscreen infotainment system. It’s very simple to use - all you need to use it is an USB cable to pair the two, a moment when the phone will automatically disable its screen and start mirroring on the big one to encourage you not fiddle with it in traffic.

The interface is very simple to use and it mostly relies on the Google Now platform, allowing you to perform basic activities like making a phone call, send messages, search for addresses and POIs, navigate to them and stream music.

Most of these things are already offered with normal infotainment systems, but what Google tries to do here is to unify this system and spare users from the ordeal of having to re-learn their way around each automaker’s interface, which also could be ugly looking and sluggish.

Apple does the same thing with its CarPlay plug-in system and you can also check this comparison between the two right here.
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