Google (GOOG, Financial) has been the leader in the search engine optimization field and is also leading in the smartphone world where its Android OS has been a huge hit among mobile players across the globe. There is almost nobody in today’s world who does not know Google and its latest offerings. In fact, when the concept of driverless cars was being brought up, it was Google who first brought up the model for such a vehicle. And now it’s building the groundwork for developing a version of Android that could be used directly in cars, allowing drivers to get all the benefits of the Internet without even plugging in their smartphones. So, what is Google’s plan of action in this domain where it’s rather a new comer and has to compete against Apple (AAPL, Financial) in the market? Here’s the total story.
Upgrading from its current software package
This is not the first move of Google to create its impression in auto industry technology, but it’s a planned move to take a 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. In fact, the first vehicles with the Google Android Auto software are to make the debut in 2015.
To take Android Auto further towards easier adoption, the company has now planned to roll out the next version of its OS, the Android M, which is slated to hit the markets in a year or so, as discussed by reliable sources.
As per Gartner’s vice president, Thilo Kosolowski, “It provides a much stronger foothold for Google to really be part of the vehicle rather than being an add on.”
If Google is successful in making Android the standard system powering the car’s entertainment and navigation features, it would solidify its position in the new market in which it has started its journey and also might aid in giving competition to its archrival Apple Inc.
Apple’s CarPlay software and Google’s Android Auto both project the smartphone apps on to the car’s screen. But every time the internet connectivity is established through the smartphone. Now, what if Google’s new upgrade does not require a smartphone for such connectivity. … It would possibly reduce the risk of switching off Google’s add-on services when a smartphone battery runs out of charge.
By tapping into the car's components, Google would gain access to valuable information to feed its data-hungry advertising business model. But for that, it needs to improve its Android Auto software and maybe this venture is aligned to this management strategy.
The most important point that Google needs to address is that its OS should power-up instantly when the ignition switch is pressed on, and the driver must not need to wait more than 30 seconds for it to get activated – the common problem faced while doing Android Auto through a smartphone.
And, finally, what is in store
Google knows well how to build its name in the auto industry, and that’s why it's trying to upgrade its operating system for cars making them more user friendly and easier to handle by the drivers. The upgradation from Android Auto to Android M is almost around the corner – so we need to stay tuned and watch out how Google is able to entice the auto industry stalwarts to use its recent technology in their cars to be built in the coming future.
