Google’s Android Automotive is moving from the dashboard to the ‘brain’ of the car

Google has announced a new version of its open source Android Automotive operating system for software-defined vehicles. While previously Android Automotive worked exclusively in the car’s infotainment system, Google is now extending its “open infrastructure” to non-security parts of the car’s internal IT system.

While cars have rapidly become “computers on wheels,” the industry remains highly fragmented, with many automakers using different and unsuitable software modules from dozens of different vendors. Google wants to solve this fragmentation problem by — what else? – becoming the de facto software provider for the industry.

But the company says it’s not just an effort to corner the market; it also wants to provide a better experience for drivers. With its new Android Automotive operating system for software-defined vehicles, the in-car experience will be “much more consistent and the latest features will reach your driveway faster,” writes Matt Crowley, Android Automotive group product manager, in a blog post.

“From a truly integrated voice experience to proactive maintenance reminders, your car will become a true extension of your digital life,” adds Crowley.

With its new software, Google promises faster over-the-air software updates, better voice assistants and more proactive vehicle maintenance alerts. Non-driving functions, such as climate control, lighting and seat adjustment, would fall under Android’s control. And the system would go beyond basic infotainment to create a unified ecosystem for features like remote cabin climate control, digital key management and personalized driver profiles.

For automakers, the new system promises lower software development costs and the ability to focus on what matters most to them: branding. By providing “the foundational code and a common language for their software,” Google says automakers will be free to design engaging experiences for their customers.

Google says it is already working with companies like Renault Group and Qualcomm to expand its new software version of Android Automotive to more cars. Many car manufacturers are already using Android Automotive, such as Volvo, Polestar, General Motors, Nissan and Honda.

Google is competing with Apple to persuade more automakers to cede control of their software development efforts. Most car manufacturers allow their customers to use phone mirroring services like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But now the two companies are going even further. Last year, Apple finally rolled out its CarPlay Ultra feature that supports more essential functions like HVAC and radio controls. The feature is available on select Aston Martin vehicles and will soon arrive at Porsche.