Google’s Automotive OS Can Now Be Used by Third-Party Developers

Google’s Android automotive OS can be now used by third party developers such as Spotify and other media app developers. The new feature allows the developers to equip a vehicle’s infotainment system with music and various entertainment apps.

At the company’s annual developer’s conference 2019, media app developers will get a chance to create experiences for the new OS. The event will start from May 7 this year. Starting with Polestar 2, an EV manufactured by Volvo’s electric performance brand will get the new software.

People familiar with the matter said Tech Crunch that the new automotive OS is currently available to Spotify and other entertainment sites. But, the tech behemoth wants to provide the OS to other categories of apps as well as navigation.

The new OS is designed after its open source mobile OS that operates on Linux. The company modified the OS for cars instead of smartphones and tablets.

Polestar launched the new EV- Polestar 2 in February this year. A five-door fastback EV, the infotainment system is equipped by Google’s new automotive OS. Therefore, the drivers of the new EV will be able to use features such as Google Assistant, Google Play Store, and Google Maps.

Earlier, in 2017, Volvo unveiled its plans to put many features in its next-gen Sensus infotainment system called Ivo. The features include voice-controlled Google Assistant, Google Play Store, Google Maps and other Google services.

The new launch by Google is a major boost for vehicles.