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An interesting force is happening in the auto industry, and it comes down to supporting or not supporting the use of Android Auto / Apple Carplay. This feature which is pretty standard across the internal combustion auto's (ICE) is only found on a select group of electrical vehicles (EVs) as the global auto industry has chosen to move to a Qualcomm Snapdragon Digital Chassis running the Android operating system. If you wish to understand all the tech details about this platform, you can read it here: QUALCOMM Snapdragon Automotive 5G Platform The basic understanding of this system is it is an auto-to-cloud over-the-air (OTA) high speed computer network running the Android operating system. Like android smartphones, this system allows the AUTO OEM to run their own eco system with pay store. Yes, this system does work seamlessly with Android Auto and Apple Carplay and as of today this is where the difference is coming to the consumer. End result is the auto manufacture can totally control what you buy, install and do on your EV and keep everything to just the auto company or sell it to 3rd party companies. This system allows you to log into your existing Android apps and use them as you would on your phone but on your EV. Currently the Auto OEMs have gone into two camps, those keeping everything to themselves and disabling the support for Android Auto/Apple Carplay and those OEMs that support Android Auto/Apple Carplay. Currently GM, Ford, VW, BMW, Nissan and others have stated they will not enable Android Auto/Apple Carplay in their EVs. Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Honda, Volvo and Polestar all currently support Android Auto / Apple Carplay in their EVs running on the same Qualcomm Snapdragon Automotive 5G platform. You then have the only two EV companies that are exceptions to the above, Rivian and Tesla. Rivian uses the QUALCOMM Snapdragon Ride Flex system with their own custom software stack, thus not supporting Android Auto or Apple Carplay. Tesla uses their own inhouse controller board and software stack also not supporting Android Auto or Apple Carplay. This brings us back to the question stated as the title of this write up. Would you buy an auto without Android Auto or Apple Carplay? -
If you're the owner of an Android phone and an Android Auto enabled vehicle, this summer there will be a big upgrade coming to the interface of both. The new design will allow you to do more with fewer taps, while also showing more information on the screen at a time. As soon as you start your car, Android Auto will pick up where you left off with your media and automatically show your navigation app of choice. Navigation will show a suggested list of places or the user can say "Hey Google" to navigate to a new place. At the bottom will be a navigation bar that will allow users to control apps and see turn-by-turn navigation instructions even while on a Media or Phone screen. The color pallet has changed to a darker theme which is easier on the eyes. The font has been changed to be easier to read. In vehicles with wider screens, Android Auto will now fill that extra space with additional information such as next-turn direction, playback controls, or ongoing call information. You can see the new animations and look at the video below. These changes will be available on all Android Auto capable devices this summer. View full article
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If you're the owner of an Android phone and an Android Auto enabled vehicle, this summer there will be a big upgrade coming to the interface of both. The new design will allow you to do more with fewer taps, while also showing more information on the screen at a time. As soon as you start your car, Android Auto will pick up where you left off with your media and automatically show your navigation app of choice. Navigation will show a suggested list of places or the user can say "Hey Google" to navigate to a new place. At the bottom will be a navigation bar that will allow users to control apps and see turn-by-turn navigation instructions even while on a Media or Phone screen. The color pallet has changed to a darker theme which is easier on the eyes. The font has been changed to be easier to read. In vehicles with wider screens, Android Auto will now fill that extra space with additional information such as next-turn direction, playback controls, or ongoing call information. You can see the new animations and look at the video below. These changes will be available on all Android Auto capable devices this summer. -
GM offering free Android Auto Update in Certain 2016 Models
Drew Dowdell posted an article in General Motors
GM's four North American brands announced today that as of now, most 2016 vehicles that currently have Apple CarPlay compatibility can be brought to their dealers for a free update to the infotainment system to add Android Auto. Android Auto requires a phone running Android Lollipop 5.0 or higher and require various apps to be installed on the phone. You can find apps compatible with Android Auto here. Vehicles eligible for the updates are as follows: Chevrolet - 2016 models with 8" MyLink eligible for Android Auto Update: Malibu (Excluding Limited) Impala Volt Camaro coupe and convertible Corvette coupe and convertible Colorado Silverado 1500 and HD Tahoe Suburban All 2016 models with 7" MyLink screen are already Android Auto capable and do not require an update. GMC - 2016 models with 8 inch IntelliLink eligible for Android Auto Update: Canyon Sierra Yukon Buick - 2016 models with 8 inch IntelliLink eligible for Android Auto Update: LaCrosse Regal *Envision and Encore will gain Android Auto in 2017 Model year Cadillac - All 2016 and newer models except SRX -
GM's four North American brands announced today that as of now, most 2016 vehicles that currently have Apple CarPlay compatibility can be brought to their dealers for a free update to the infotainment system to add Android Auto. Android Auto requires a phone running Android Lollipop 5.0 or higher and require various apps to be installed on the phone. You can find apps compatible with Android Auto here. Vehicles eligible for the updates are as follows: Chevrolet - 2016 models with 8" MyLink eligible for Android Auto Update: Malibu (Excluding Limited) Impala Volt Camaro coupe and convertible Corvette coupe and convertible Colorado Silverado 1500 and HD Tahoe Suburban All 2016 models with 7" MyLink screen are already Android Auto capable and do not require an update. GMC - 2016 models with 8 inch IntelliLink eligible for Android Auto Update: Canyon Sierra Yukon Buick - 2016 models with 8 inch IntelliLink eligible for Android Auto Update: LaCrosse Regal *Envision and Encore will gain Android Auto in 2017 Model year Cadillac - All 2016 and newer models except SRX View full article
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The age of the connected car is here as General Motors announced that 14 vehicles from Chevrolet's 2016 lineup will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility through the MyLink infotainment system. This means GM is one of the first automakers to offer both systems, giving owners a relief when it comes to choosing one over the other. “For most of us, our smartphones are essential. Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. There will be two variants of the MyLink system available for vehicles - a seven and eight-inch screen. GM notes that for now, the eight-inch screen version only works with Apple's CarPlay. Android Auto support will come in the future. Chevrolet says support for both systems will begin rolling out later this year. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 Chevrolet is Global Leader for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay All-new 2016 Cruze is one of 14 Chevrolet models to offer compatibility LOS ANGELES – According to Strategy Analytics, there are more than 2.3 billion smartphones in use globally, and that number continues to rise. And on the road, customers are demanding better integration between phones and their vehicles. Whether they have an Apple or Android phone, Chevrolet is committed to providing the smartest, simplest connected driving experience possible to owners across the globe. For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility in more models than any automotive brand. The 14 Chevrolet models include the all-new 2016 Cruze compact car, which will debut on June 24. Cruze is Chevrolet’s best-selling passenger car, with more than 3 million sold since launch. Additional models are listed in a chart below. “For most of us, our smartphones are essential,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. “Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers.” Chevrolet’s seven-inch MyLink infotainment system gives owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The eight-inch version of MyLink will be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. While development and testing is not yet complete, Android Auto compatibility may be available on the eight-inch version of MyLink later in the 2016 model year. Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a button on the steering wheel, helping drivers spend more time with eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Chevrolet has a strong track record when it comes to broad availability of customer-centric innovation as the first brand to introduce Siri Eyes Free functionality and the first and only car company to offer available OnStar 4G LTE connectivity across a range of cars, trucks and crossovers in the U.S. and Canada. In less than one year, Chevrolet has connected more than a half-million customers to high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Chevrolet customers in markets around the world including Brazil, Mexico and Canada will benefit from this new level of smartphone integration. Specific market availability for Android Auto can be found here. Current Apple CarPlay markets can be found here. In 2014, the 14 models included in this rollout accounted for more than 2.4 million vehicle sales, or 51 percent of Chevrolet’s total global sales. Using either application is simple in a compatible 2016 Chevrolet. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate either CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later. View full article -
The age of the connected car is here as General Motors announced that 14 vehicles from Chevrolet's 2016 lineup will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility through the MyLink infotainment system. This means GM is one of the first automakers to offer both systems, giving owners a relief when it comes to choosing one over the other. “For most of us, our smartphones are essential. Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. There will be two variants of the MyLink system available for vehicles - a seven and eight-inch screen. GM notes that for now, the eight-inch screen version only works with Apple's CarPlay. Android Auto support will come in the future. Chevrolet says support for both systems will begin rolling out later this year. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 Chevrolet is Global Leader for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay All-new 2016 Cruze is one of 14 Chevrolet models to offer compatibility LOS ANGELES – According to Strategy Analytics, there are more than 2.3 billion smartphones in use globally, and that number continues to rise. And on the road, customers are demanding better integration between phones and their vehicles. Whether they have an Apple or Android phone, Chevrolet is committed to providing the smartest, simplest connected driving experience possible to owners across the globe. For the 2016 model year, Chevrolet will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility in more models than any automotive brand. The 14 Chevrolet models include the all-new 2016 Cruze compact car, which will debut on June 24. Cruze is Chevrolet’s best-selling passenger car, with more than 3 million sold since launch. Additional models are listed in a chart below. “For most of us, our smartphones are essential,” said Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors. “Partnering with Apple and Google to offer CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility across the widest range of models in the industry is a great example of how Chevrolet continues to democratize technology that’s important to our customers.” Chevrolet’s seven-inch MyLink infotainment system gives owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The eight-inch version of MyLink will be compatible only with Apple CarPlay at the beginning of the 2016 model year. While development and testing is not yet complete, Android Auto compatibility may be available on the eight-inch version of MyLink later in the 2016 model year. Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third-party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Many features can be controlled via voice commands through a button on the steering wheel, helping drivers spend more time with eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Chevrolet has a strong track record when it comes to broad availability of customer-centric innovation as the first brand to introduce Siri Eyes Free functionality and the first and only car company to offer available OnStar 4G LTE connectivity across a range of cars, trucks and crossovers in the U.S. and Canada. In less than one year, Chevrolet has connected more than a half-million customers to high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi. Chevrolet customers in markets around the world including Brazil, Mexico and Canada will benefit from this new level of smartphone integration. Specific market availability for Android Auto can be found here. Current Apple CarPlay markets can be found here. In 2014, the 14 models included in this rollout accounted for more than 2.4 million vehicle sales, or 51 percent of Chevrolet’s total global sales. Using either application is simple in a compatible 2016 Chevrolet. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate either CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later. -
Just days after a similar Android Auto and Apple CarPlay announcement from Chevrolet, Opel has announced it will be releasing the two smart phone integration systems across it's small and mid-size car lineup. Starting with the next generation Opel Astra, which will be shown in September at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the integration will debut on Opel's R 4.0 IntelliLink system while the Touch R 700 and Navi 900 systems gaining the functions later in 2016. The first systems will be available starting in September 2015. Regardless of which system being used, a Projection icon will be available on the Intellilink screen which will change to an Apply CarPlay or Android Auto icon when the respective phone is connected. Android Auto requires a phone running at least Android 5.0 Lollipop or higher and Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or higher. To those of us in the U.S, this gives us hope that a Apple CarPlay and Android Auto announcement for Buick, GMC, and Cadillac is not far away. Source: GM Media Opel Press Release on Page 2 Opel is Leader for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay · Next-generation Opel Astra will be first in class to offer compatibility with both solutions · Phone integration in other Opel models to be announced soon Rüsselsheim. As of this summer, Opel will begin offering phone integration featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across its model range. Starting with the next-generation Astra, which will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (September 17 to 27), Opel will roll-out Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in its mini, small, compact and midsize models during model year 2016. “Phone integration is a smart and simple way to use your smartphone in your car,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “We are offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration across the range, at the most attractive prices on the market. These applications, in addition to Opel OnStar, our personal connectivity and service assistant, show again how we are playing a leading role in enabling customers to connect with their cars.” Opel’s new generation IntelliLink infotainment concept gives owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. R 4.0 IntelliLink will be compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration at the beginning of the 2016 model year, with Android Auto compatibility on Touch R 700 and Navi 900 IntelliLink systems scheduled to arrive in the course of 2016. Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Using either application in a compatible Opel is simple. A “Projection” icon on the infotainment touch-screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later. Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply. As of the 2016 model year, the Meriva, Mokka, current Astra GTC, current Astra sedan, Zafira Tourer and Cascada with Navi 650 or CD600/Navi 950 IntelliLink infotainment systems will offer an embedded app for AUPEO! Personal Radio. View full article
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Just days after a similar Android Auto and Apple CarPlay announcement from Chevrolet, Opel has announced it will be releasing the two smart phone integration systems across it's small and mid-size car lineup. Starting with the next generation Opel Astra, which will be shown in September at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the integration will debut on Opel's R 4.0 IntelliLink system while the Touch R 700 and Navi 900 systems gaining the functions later in 2016. The first systems will be available starting in September 2015. Regardless of which system being used, a Projection icon will be available on the Intellilink screen which will change to an Apply CarPlay or Android Auto icon when the respective phone is connected. Android Auto requires a phone running at least Android 5.0 Lollipop or higher and Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or higher. To those of us in the U.S, this gives us hope that a Apple CarPlay and Android Auto announcement for Buick, GMC, and Cadillac is not far away. Source: GM Media Opel Press Release on Page 2 Opel is Leader for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay · Next-generation Opel Astra will be first in class to offer compatibility with both solutions · Phone integration in other Opel models to be announced soon Rüsselsheim. As of this summer, Opel will begin offering phone integration featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across its model range. Starting with the next-generation Astra, which will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (September 17 to 27), Opel will roll-out Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in its mini, small, compact and midsize models during model year 2016. “Phone integration is a smart and simple way to use your smartphone in your car,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “We are offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration across the range, at the most attractive prices on the market. These applications, in addition to Opel OnStar, our personal connectivity and service assistant, show again how we are playing a leading role in enabling customers to connect with their cars.” Opel’s new generation IntelliLink infotainment concept gives owners a smart and simple way to access both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. R 4.0 IntelliLink will be compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration at the beginning of the 2016 model year, with Android Auto compatibility on Touch R 700 and Navi 900 IntelliLink systems scheduled to arrive in the course of 2016. Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Using either application in a compatible Opel is simple. A “Projection” icon on the infotainment touch-screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or above, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later. Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates may also apply. As of the 2016 model year, the Meriva, Mokka, current Astra GTC, current Astra sedan, Zafira Tourer and Cascada with Navi 650 or CD600/Navi 950 IntelliLink infotainment systems will offer an embedded app for AUPEO! Personal Radio. -
General Motors' Next Infotainment System To Be Based On Android
William Maley posted an article in General Motors
General Motors is turning to Android to power its next-generation infotainment system. According to Automotive News, Harman International CEO Dinesh Paliwal made the announcement during a conference call discussing quarterly earnings. “As you would expect, this next-generation infotainment solution will enable an app store, which allows this infotainment system to stay technologically relevant over the life cycle of the vehicle. Apps will be developed by General Motors, Harman and a bunch of other third parties, not just Google and Apple," said Paliwal. Harman won the $900 million contract back in 2012 and has been working closely with Google on the system. It should be stressed that this system isn't anything like the recently announced Android Auto system which allows the Android OS to be projected on the vehicle's infotainment system. No mention of when this system will debut, or what vehicle it will appear in first. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
General Motors is turning to Android to power its next-generation infotainment system. According to Automotive News, Harman International CEO Dinesh Paliwal made the announcement during a conference call discussing quarterly earnings. “As you would expect, this next-generation infotainment solution will enable an app store, which allows this infotainment system to stay technologically relevant over the life cycle of the vehicle. Apps will be developed by General Motors, Harman and a bunch of other third parties, not just Google and Apple," said Paliwal. Harman won the $900 million contract back in 2012 and has been working closely with Google on the system. It should be stressed that this system isn't anything like the recently announced Android Auto system which allows the Android OS to be projected on the vehicle's infotainment system. No mention of when this system will debut, or what vehicle it will appear in first. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
