Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/Ford
Ford is the next big name to adopt Android Automotive, with Google's operating system to debut in select models wearing Ford and Lincoln badges.
In addition to access to integrated features like Google Maps and Google Assistant, Android Automotive will also provide advanced functionality in Ford cars. Including features to turn the infotainment screen into a mobile computer, that is.
Google announced Chrome support on Android Automotive earlier this month, providing users with an easy way to browse the web from the infotainment unit. Vivaldi was already available on Android Automotive as a great option to visit your favorite websites, but Google Chrome will be offered as the first-party solution with access to features like syncing and Google account integration.
Users will be allowed to sync their bookmarks, so they get access to their favorite websites by logging in with the same Google account.
Ford cars running Android Automotive will get Google Chrome later this year, as the application is currently available in beta exclusively in Volvo and Polestar models. However, the American carmaker will also offer Bluetooth keyboard support "to make typing easier."
It means users can connect keyboards to the Android Automotive-powered infotainment systems via Bluetooth, turning the dashboard into a portable computer on wheels. They'll be able to navigate the web like on a PC, though keeping a keyboard around isn't the most convenient thing for a driver.
However, Bluetooth keyboards are now available in many convenient form factors, including foldable designs that make them less intrusive. They can be placed virtually anywhere when not in use and unfolded in a couple of seconds to instantly connect to the Android Automotive receiver for an ad-hoc browsing experience.
The integrated Bluetooth support also opens the door to more capabilities in a Ford car running Android Automotive. Users can play games published on the Play Store, including a custom version of Asphalt Nitro 2. The best thing about the gaming experience is that users can connect a Bluetooth controller and play games as they do on a console using the infotainment unit as the screen.
The browser integration also paves the way for other capabilities that could be enabled with the right support, including game streaming.
However, all these features will debut in Ford cars and other Android Automotive-powered vehicles with an obvious limitation. They'll be available only when the vehicles are parked, as allowing browsing or gaming when the car is in motion, even to allow the passenger enjoy the content, could cause significant driver distraction. The Chrome browsing experience is also allowed only when the car is parked, such as when waiting to charge the battery. Neither Google nor Ford shared any ETA specifics for Chrome integration besides the typical "coming soon" promise.
Google announced Chrome support on Android Automotive earlier this month, providing users with an easy way to browse the web from the infotainment unit. Vivaldi was already available on Android Automotive as a great option to visit your favorite websites, but Google Chrome will be offered as the first-party solution with access to features like syncing and Google account integration.
Users will be allowed to sync their bookmarks, so they get access to their favorite websites by logging in with the same Google account.
Ford cars running Android Automotive will get Google Chrome later this year, as the application is currently available in beta exclusively in Volvo and Polestar models. However, the American carmaker will also offer Bluetooth keyboard support "to make typing easier."
It means users can connect keyboards to the Android Automotive-powered infotainment systems via Bluetooth, turning the dashboard into a portable computer on wheels. They'll be able to navigate the web like on a PC, though keeping a keyboard around isn't the most convenient thing for a driver.
However, Bluetooth keyboards are now available in many convenient form factors, including foldable designs that make them less intrusive. They can be placed virtually anywhere when not in use and unfolded in a couple of seconds to instantly connect to the Android Automotive receiver for an ad-hoc browsing experience.
The integrated Bluetooth support also opens the door to more capabilities in a Ford car running Android Automotive. Users can play games published on the Play Store, including a custom version of Asphalt Nitro 2. The best thing about the gaming experience is that users can connect a Bluetooth controller and play games as they do on a console using the infotainment unit as the screen.
The browser integration also paves the way for other capabilities that could be enabled with the right support, including game streaming.
However, all these features will debut in Ford cars and other Android Automotive-powered vehicles with an obvious limitation. They'll be available only when the vehicles are parked, as allowing browsing or gaming when the car is in motion, even to allow the passenger enjoy the content, could cause significant driver distraction. The Chrome browsing experience is also allowed only when the car is parked, such as when waiting to charge the battery. Neither Google nor Ford shared any ETA specifics for Chrome integration besides the typical "coming soon" promise.
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