Mixing technology and automotive, the Google I/O 2023 conference evoked this new era of connected driving. From the ability to hold virtual meetings in your car to integrating games and YouTube into Android Automotive, this is how Google is reinventing the driving experience.
Source: Google
Every year, Google offers us a series of novelties at its annual Google I/O conference. The 2023 edition was no exception to the rule, with an avalanche of new features and products that techies dream about. For those who missed the event: don’t worry, we have prepared everything for you. Buckle up (of course) and get ready for an exciting journey into the world of Google automotive technology.
Android Auto, Digital Car Key and Android Automotive, the winning trio
First, let’s take a look at Google’s top three automotive products. Android Auto, which turns your car’s screen into a mirror of your smartphone, is a mainstay of the Google range. It’s simple, it’s effective and, let’s face it, it’s like having your personal assistant at your fingertips while driving.
Source: Google
Then there is the digital car key. As the name suggests, it turns your Android smartphone into a car key. If you’re like me and constantly lose your keys, this feature is a real godsend. It is used by Mercedes, among others.
Google Partner for Android Automotive // Source: Google
Finally, we have Android Automotive, a full-featured operating system that sits right in your car and keeps you entertained while you drive. It’s already available from several Google partners, including Renault and Volvo. You don’t need a smartphone, the system is autonomous, of course with the Play Store.
Now let’s look at what’s new in Google I/O. If you don’t have time to watch the video below, here’s a recap of the announcements.
Virtual meetings in your car, why not?
One of the big news of the conference is the upcoming in-car integration of Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex and Zoom. Yes, you heard right. Now you can also participate in your virtual meetings while driving. Of course, we don’t recommend filing your earnings report while you’re negotiating a sharp turn (that’s not possible anyway), but it’s good to know that the possibility exists.
For example, there is an optional new selfie camera in the new E-Class from Mercedes. If your car doesn’t have a built-in camera, don’t worry, your smartphone’s selfie camera will do. And for those wondering, yes, Tesla has rolled out Zoom in France too.
YouTube and games are coming to Android Automotive
One of the most exciting announcements for passengers (and stationary drivers) is the planned integration of YouTube into the Android Automotive operating system.
Source: Google
Games are also planned, with well-known Android Auto GameSnacks also being available for Android Automotive OS in the future. These games, which include Beach Buggy Racing 2, Solitaire FRVR, and My Talking Tom Friends, are stationary-only and touch-screen-only. For those of us who have always dreamed of turning our car into an arcade, this is a step in the right direction. And who knows? Maybe one day Google can compete with Tesla, which can now power Steam with AAA games.
Google Assistant and quick replies
Android Auto’s Google Assistant already offers the ability to use quick replies as suggestions for incoming messages. These messages can be sent with just a touch of the screen. Google plans to bring this feature to the Android Automotive OS in the coming months. This is great news for those of us who are always late in replying to messages!
Waze and new app categories
Waze, Google’s second navigation app, is now making its debut on Android Automotive. It’s a welcome addition for those of us who rely on Waze to avoid traffic jams and speed cameras.
Source: Google
But that’s not all. Google also has new app categories planned for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS. First up are IoT and weather apps. For example, IoT apps can control your smart home, while weather apps give you the weather forecast for your trip. We look forward to the launch of The Weather Channel apps later this year.
Multi-screen and vehicle sensor control
Google has also announced changes for Android Automotive OS in terms of screen processing. The operating system will be able to control multiple screens in the vehicle with individual content for each passenger. Whether you are a front or rear passenger, you can run your own content, be it navigation, video or games.
Developers can also access vehicle sensors, if enabled by the manufacturer, and include information such as range, fuel level, speed, etc. It’s a big step forward for a truly personalized and interactive driving experience.
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