Google Wants Android Auto to Go Beyond the Dashboard

Cars are incredible. They're also annoying, because in this day and age, they rely just as much on computers to keep them thumping as the actual mechanics that turn the wheels. In-car software is often a mess of different developers and suppliers, and most car makers spend too much time trying to build the best thing ever rather than implementing something that works.

Google's hoping to streamline the automotive industry with its own open-source software, just as it helped streamline smartphones. The company has announced Android Automotive OS for Software-Designed Vehicles, or AAOS SDV—say that as fast as you can. This effectively extends Google's influence in the car beyond the dashboard screen, enabling Android Automotive to integrate with the car's internal architecture.

Google blogs:

We're extending AAOS beyond the car's screen with Android Automotive OS for Software Defined Vehicles (AAOS SDV). This new foundation, built in collaboration with our automotive partners, provides an open infrastructure for the non-safety parts of vehicles—allowing carmakers more choice and time to focus on delivering unique experiences and innovations their customers love.

What does that mean for you, the driver? Android—or Gemini, when it comes to it—will be able to tell you when your car needs maintenance or when another non-safety sensor needs addressing. It also means that instead of going to a dealer to get a software upgrade for your car, you can theoretically connect to the internet at home to grab the over-the-air update.

For drivers, these in-car experiences will feel much more cohesive and the latest features will reach your driveway faster. From a truly integrated voice experience to proactive maintenance reminders, your car will become a true extension of your digital life.

Google is already working with the Renault Group, a French carmaker, and Qualcomm on streamlining the offering. Google expects that AAOS SDV will go fully open source later this year.