While Google isn’t unveiling any new devices during CES 2024, that doesn’t mean the search giant is out of the headlines. Indeed, Google has just announced a range of new apps and features coming to both Android Auto and automobiles that already have its infotainment system baked in.
Real-time Sharing
Starting with Ford’s Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning pick-up, real-time battery information will be shared with apps like Google Maps. This will have the benefit of letting Google Maps show how much battery life is left at the end of the journey and suggest charging stops if it looks like you need to top-up. Depending on which vehicle you are driving, it will even estimate how long it will take to charge the battery depending on how much juice is left over.
If your car already has Google built-in, you can seamlessly share the trip you’ve planned on Google Maps using your phone directly to the car. This feature has begun rolling out today, so make sure your apps are updated accordingly.
Chrome Browser Rolling Out
Whether it’s getting the contact details of the company van that drove badly in front of you or perhaps searching through your saved bookmarks, you can do that and more the next time you are parked in your car. Starting today, the Chrome browser is rolling out to select Polestar and Volvo cars in beta form before a more substantial rollout later this year.
Got the kids in the back seat? No worries because cars with Google built-in now offer the option to watch shows from PBS Kids and Crunchyroll. And, if the weather is a constant concern, you can stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts via The Weather Channel app. You can even check the ‘Trip View’ radar on your dashboard display.
Coming Up
Google has stated that it’s continuing to work with more brands and developers to expand the availability of apps, features, and services for your car – whether it has Google built-in or you are using Android Auto. Major car brands such as Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln are launching cars with Google built-in this year, with Porsche expected to follow suit in the future.
We can expect features like digital car keys to expand regarding regions and car brands, letting you unlock, lock, and start your car with your Android phone. You’ll even be able to share the key with friends and family, although if you have a car you love or are just really dependent on, that might not be something that’s advised.
If your car doesn’t have Google built-in, so long as it has Bluetooth or USB connectivity, you should be able to add Android Auto to benefit from Google’s infotainment system. We’ll undoubtedly learn more about what Google has planned for its Android Auto and built-in products during Google I/O 2024, traditionally held in May.
If you happen to be going to CES 2024, you can always head over to the Android booth to check out the demos of the experiences on the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Polestar 3.
