Google’s Android Auto is an innovative new technology that aims to bring the power of smartphones into your vehicle’s infotainment (radio, sat nav, phonebook and traffic updates) unit. This new feature essentially turns your car’s touchscreen display unit into a full-on tablet, powered by Android 5.x Lollipop.
Aftermarket Improvements
Instead of spending thousands on manufacturer’s upgrades, this simple - yet brilliant - device is plugged into your car via USB giving you a wealth of possibilities. Android Auto can take over everything, handling phone calls via Bluetooth and allowing you to access apps like Google Maps, Google Play Music, Google Now and even third-party apps that have been modified for use in cars.
This opens up the possibility for improved communications and connectivity across fleets, making it much easier for businesses to keep track of their vehicles. Depending on the systems already in place or the cost of upgrades equipment, this could be a cheap way to provide drivers with advanced technology.
A Step Towards the Future
No matter how you look at it, the future of driving and automobile design is leaning very heavily towards improved technology and connectivity. Android Auto is a step towards this, providing you with an aftermarket solution towards smarter vehicle systems.
While this doesn’t affect, or even improve, the vehicle’s performance it does go a long way in improving usability and fleet management - something that hundreds of businesses will see huge benefits from.
