Google Extends its Android for Car App Library

Jun, 2021 - By WMR

Google makes it easier to install android apps in cars.

On Tuesday, Google stated at its annual developer conference that it is expanding its android app library for cars. It is a part of Jetpack to support the android automotive operating system. New apps that are being created are compatible for two different platforms: Android OS and Android Auto (this may sometimes overlap). These apps are beneficial for developers as these apps will work accurately with cars of different brands and models. Models from Volvo, GM, Renault and Polestar will be equipped with the Android Automotive operating system along with all the google applications and services. Google also plans to allow third party developers to bring in their navigation, electric car charging, parking and other applications to the car screen. Google has already started working with Early Access Partners, including Parkwhiz, Plugshare, Sygic, ChargePoint, Flitsmeister, SpotHero and others to develop these apps powered by Android Automotive OS.

Android Automotive OS is different from Android Auto. Android Auto is an additional interface on top of the operating system, which allows an application to run on the user’s phone and communicates wirelessly with the vehicle’s infotainment system. Whereas, Android Automotive OS is developed after its open source mobile operating system which runs on Linux. Google modified it in a way that, automakers can use it in their vehicles instead of using it in smartphones and tablets. Google has offered an open-source model of this OS to automaker of a limited time. In recent years, automakers operated with the tech company to develop the Android OS, which is installed with all the Google applications and services like Google Assistance, Google Maps and Google Plays Store.

Google opened its Android Automotive OS to third-party developers two years ago, allowing them to integrate music and other entertainment apps into the car’s infotainment system. Many third party developers have used the Android for cars to build their Android Auto apps and release them on the Play Store. Developers only need to compile it once, by extending the Cars App to the operating system.