Android Auto is ready to host new navigation apps such as TomTom’s. Here’s what you need to know
Google is always at the forefront when it needs to update its apps and platforms, or when it needs to launch new services. But in some cases it is not so perfect and fast in receiving users’ requests. Let’s refer to Android Auto, the platform for “smart” cars that is present in many vehicles or that you can use through the app for your smartphone.
Android Auto represents a unicum in the policy carried out by Google in recent years. If Android is an open operating system that allows all developers to publish their apps on the Google Play Store (respecting some pretty simple guidelines), Android Auto doesn’t follow the same rules. A very simple example are the navigation apps: besides Google Maps and Waze there are no other platforms. But a lot should change soon: Google has opened up to nearly a dozen navigation apps that will soon debut on Android Auto. There will certainly be room for the TomTom app and others like it.
The other news concerns Android Automotive OS, the operating system that Google has been developing for a few years now. The Mountain View company has assured that development is almost complete and that it will soon make its debut in many cars.
Android Auto, new apps for navigation
Google Maps and Waze will soon have new competitors on Android Auto. Google has announced that a dozen new navigation apps are on the way, after learning of very tight agreements with developers. Making apps for Android Auto requires more attention and much stricter guidelines because of the different usage of these apps. The reason is very simple: apps should not interfere with driving and should not distract the driver.
New apps coming to Android Auto include the TomTom navigation system and apps that show charging stations. They are expected to arrive in the next few weeks.
Android Automotive OS, steps forward
Important news also for Android Automotive OS, the smart car operating system that Google plans to bring to the infotainment systems of many vehicles soon. After making its debut on some cars in the US, the new operating system is expected to arrive also on cars of famous brands such as Renault, Volvo and Generalo Motors. On Android Automotive OS, users will find many more apps and features, such as the Google Play Store and the Google Assistant.