Google had its annual Google I/O Developers Conference yesterday where it announced the new Android Auto system for passenger cars. The system, which is similar to Apple's CarPlay, will be seen in upcoming cars of various brands such as the next generation 2015 Volvo XC90.
The system will allow owners to connect their Android smartphones or tablets directly into the new XC90's large central touchscreen display. The system, according to Volvo, will be highly functional yet simple to use. Applications like Google Search, Google Maps, Google Play Music and Spotify will be accessible through voice commands or steering mounted controls, or through the car's touchscreen itself.
Volvo says that owners will have the option of choosing between the Android Auto system or Apple's CarPlay system on their future cars based on the SPA (Scalable Product Architecture).
The new XC90, which is compatible with both these systems, will be revealed at the Paris Motor Show in October this year. The SUV will head for production sometime late this year or early next year, and an Indian launch is expected to take place around mid-2015.
2015 Volvo XC90 Android Auto - Press Release
[Head to Slideshare if you're unable to view the document above.]