Exciting Updates to Google’s Android Auto at CES 2024
Within the last decade, the competition between Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS has extended from smartphones to automobiles. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration have emerged as significant factors in car purchasing decisions, reflecting consumer platform preferences. As a result, Google and Apple continue to enhance their technologies to gain an edge. Therefore, at CES 2024, Google announced notable upgrades coming to Android Auto and vehicles featuring “Google built-in.”
Key Features of the Latest Android Auto Update
The first major update is particularly beneficial for electric vehicles (EVs). Android Auto’s phone-mirroring software can now share your car’s real-time battery information with Google Maps displayed on the screen. Consequently, Google Maps will provide an estimated battery level upon arrival, suggest charging stations along your route, and even estimate the charging time based on the specific vehicle model. For instance, while Teslas already have this feature, many other EVs do not, making this new update a game-changer. The first vehicles to benefit will include the Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV and F-150 Lightning truck, with plans for broader implementation across other models.
New Features for Seamless Navigation
Moreover, Android users will now be able to send Google Maps routes directly from their phones to vehicles equipped with Google “built-in.” Notable models like the 2024 Nissan Rogue, Polestar 2, and Polestar 3 (currently in “beta”) will support this exciting feature. This functionality previously existed for iPhone users with Apple CarPlay, but Android’s introduction of this feature marks a significant advancement for its user base.
Internet Browsing and Streaming Services
In addition to these updates, Google has announced that the Chrome browser will soon be available in vehicles equipped with Google built-in. This will allow passengers to search the internet and even shop online using the car’s touchscreen, though it is important to note that these features will only be functional when the vehicle is parked. Currently, the Chrome browser is undergoing beta testing in Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 vehicles before expanding to other models. Furthermore, popular streaming services like PBS Kids and Crunchyroll are set to become accessible in vehicles with Google built-in, likely available only while parked as well.
Enhanced Weather Updates with The Weather Channel
In response to popular demand, the Weather Channel app is now available for vehicles featuring Google built-in. This app will keep drivers informed with hourly weather updates and “Trip View” radar displayed on the dashboard, which can be essential for longer road trips during inclement weather. As a final note, additional vehicles equipped with Google built-in are expected from manufacturers like Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln, with Porsche models anticipated in future releases. However, GM vehicles are not expected to join this list anytime soon.
