Android Auto Gets Smarter Thanks to AI, Makes CarPlay Feel Obsolete

CarPlay has barely evolved on this front, while Android Auto keeps getting smarter thanks to Google's obsession with artificial intelligence.

The latest announcement concerns the communication component bundled with Android Auto, with Google explaining that artificial intelligence will be in charge of summarizing long texts or busy group charts while driving.

It might sound like rocket science at first, but Android Auto's new features are excellent news for people who want to remain in touch with contacts without touching their phones while driving. Assuming someone sends you a long message or your contacts keep chatting in a group, and you can follow the conversations, Android Auto steps in with the power of artificial intelligence to make everything more convenient.

Android Auto automatically creates a summary of the conversation and displays it on the screen, providing several options, including pre-defined responses based on the message content.

For example, if your contacts discuss the time and location of a party, Android Auto can suggest automatic replies to let you confirm or deny that you'll attend the event. You can do this with a single tap on the smart replies screen.

Android Auto will also show more relevant options, according to the conversation. For example, you'll see a shortcut to send your ETA through Google Maps to a contact if they ask you when you arrive at a destination. Artificial intelligence automatically reads your messages, creates the summary, and suggests accurate replies and actions.

The features aren't yet available in Android Auto, but Google says the update will launch at a later time, possibly in 2024.

It's not the only big update due this year for Android Auto users. Google will also ship a pack of features allowing the stock icon design and the wallpaper on the mobile device to sync with Android Auto. It means you'll see a different icon set and your phone wallpaper on Android Auto, as Google hopes to obtain more consistency when switching from one device to the other.

CarPlay barely received any improvements lately, as Apple seems to focus more on improving the experience with Apple Maps. The latest major iOS release included support for offline maps, a feature that Google Maps has been offering for years. Additionally, it includes new EV capabilities for Apple Maps.

Android Auto is also getting new capabilities on the navigation front. The application will show the parking location in Google Maps, with Google also working with Ford on integrating advanced EV integration on Android Auto in supported models. The Mustang Mach-E and the F-150 Lightning will receive the new capabilities later this year with an OTA update.