Capturing the market: Google laying groundwork to enter the car space, says report

Android built into automobiles to offer phone-less connectivity.

SAN FRANCISCO: Google Incorporation is laying the groundwork for a version of Android that would be built directly into cars, said sources, allowing drivers to enjoy all the benefits of the Internet without even plugging in their smartphones.

The move is a major step up from Google’s current Android Auto software, which comes with the latest version of its smartphone operating system and requires a phone to be plugged into a compatible car with a built-in screen to access streaming music, maps and other apps.

Google, however, has never provided details or a timeframe for its long-term plan to put Android Auto directly into cars. The company now plans to do so when it rolls out the next version of its operating system, dubbed Android M, expected in a year or so.

The sources declined to be identified because they were not authorised to discuss the plans publicly. “It provides a much stronger foothold for Google to really be part of the vehicle rather than being an add-on,” said research firm Gartner’s vice president Thilo Koslowski, who noted that he was unaware of Google’s latest plans in this area.

If successful, Android would become the standard system powering a car’s entertainment and navigation features, solidifying Google’s position in a new market where it is competing with rival Apple Incorporation. Google could also potentially access the valuable trove of data collected by a vehicle.

Direct integration into cars ensures that drivers will use Google’s services every time they turn on the ignition, without having to plug in the phone. It could allow Google to make more use of a car’s camera, sensors, fuel gauge, and Internet connections that come with some newer car models.

Analysts said Google’s plan could face various technical and business challenges, including convincing automakers to integrate its services into their vehicles. Google declined to comment. Technology companies are racing to design appliances, wristwatches and other gadgets that connect to the Internet.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 20^th, 2014.

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