Android Auto users and vehicles with Google built-in are receiving expanded functionality with new app integrations. Among the additions are web conferencing apps like WebEx and Zoom, along with entertainment apps such as Prime Video. These enhancements aim to provide users with a broader range of options for video streaming, staying connected through web conferencing, checking weather, and utilizing digital key functions. This update is set to offer more features and flexibility to Android Auto and Google built-in users, enhancing their in-car experience.
This announcement brings a combination of updates and features, and the availability varies between Android Auto users and those with Google built-in, as well as depending on the specific make and model of your vehicle. The changes and additions are somewhat diverse, so let’s explore them further.
Android Auto Adds Web Conferencing Features, But Keep It Audio-Only
Android Auto, the system that enables mirroring your Android smartphone on your car’s interior dashboard display, is introducing new web conferencing features. These features include WebEx by Cisco and Zoom, but they are limited to audio-only functionality. This means you can join your meetings while on the road without concerns about your appearance or visual distractions. The latest update offers a mix-and-match experience for Android Auto users.
Google’s native Android software, often referred to as Google built-in, introduced support for Zoom, WebEx, and Microsoft Teams for cars in May of this year. This integration allowed drivers using vehicles equipped with this native Android software to access and use these web conferencing platforms directly from their car’s infotainment systems. This was a significant step forward in enhancing in-car connectivity and productivity.
However, Google recently announced that Android Auto, which is a system that mirrors Android smartphone functionality onto a car’s dashboard display, is now also receiving these web conferencing features. This means that Android Auto users, who make up a substantial portion of the user base for these systems, can now enjoy the same convenience of participating in web conferences while on the road.
Google is ensuring that its Android Auto platform remains competitive and aligned with the features available in cars with native Android software. This update bridges the gap between the two systems, offering a consistent web conferencing experience for all Android users, regardless of their car’s software integration. It’s a move aimed at making web conferencing more accessible and convenient for individuals who spend a significant amount of time commuting or traveling in their vehicles.
Google Brings Prime Video and Vivaldi Web Browser to Cars with Google Built-In
Google is expanding its in-car entertainment offerings by introducing Prime Video and the Vivaldi web browser to select vehicles equipped with Google built-in software. These vehicles come from manufacturers such as Renault, Polestar, and Volvo. Notably, Polestar, a subsidiary of Volvo’s parent company Geely, made a separate announcement about this addition.
These apps can be downloaded through the Play Store and are accessible only when the vehicle is parked, ensuring safety while using them. They provide an excellent way to pass the time while charging electric vehicles from Polestar or Volvo. It’s important to emphasize that watching videos or playing games on the car’s main display while driving is unsafe and could lead to legal consequences.
Google has been steadily expanding its lineup of video streaming apps for its native Android platform, with YouTube being one of the recent additions. This move follows a trend in the automotive industry where in-car entertainment options continue to evolve and diversify. Tesla, for instance, has been offering access to platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube since 2019. Google’s latest additions aim to enhance the in-car entertainment experience for drivers and passengers alike.
The Weather Channel App Now Available for Google Built-In Cars
Google is enhancing its in-car experience by introducing The Weather Channel’s app to vehicles equipped with Google built-in software. This addition allows drivers and passengers to stay informed about current weather conditions while on the road.
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Moreover, the app offers a useful “Trip View” feature, enabling users to check weather conditions and forecasts for their upcoming road trips. This functionality enhances the overall driving experience by providing valuable weather information to help travelers plan their journeys more effectively and stay prepared for changing weather conditions.
With these updates, Google is further expanding the capabilities of its in-car entertainment and information system, offering drivers a more comprehensive and connected experience during their travels.
Google Introduces Digital Key Feature for Select Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia Models
Google is revolutionizing the way users interact with their vehicles by introducing a digital key feature for select Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia models. This innovative technology allows drivers to use their Android smartphones as digital keys, providing a seamless and convenient way to access and operate their vehicles.
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The digital key functionality is currently available for users in the U.S., Canada, and Korea who own compatible Pixel and Samsung devices, such as the Pixel 7 Pro and Samsung S23+. With this feature, users can unlock, start, and operate their vehicles with a simple tap of their smartphone, offering a modern and user-friendly alternative to traditional car keys.
Google is committed to expanding support for digital key functionality, with plans to collaborate with additional automakers in the coming year. This advancement underscores Google’s dedication to enhancing the connectivity and convenience of modern vehicles for drivers around the world.
