Photo: Hyundai
Android Auto went a long way from being just an idea to actually being implemented in the 2015 Hyundai Sonata. And on that note, Hyundai is the first automaker to hone the potential of the system.
In early 2014, Audi, General Motors and Honda, joined a Google-led group called the Open Automotive Alliance. The work for Android Auto started and one year later, the project materialized and rolled out in a production car.
Also, officials have high hopes and expect the product to make an immediate impact. Why so much enthusiasm, you might think? Well, it's because Hyundai Motor America believes buyers won't be able to live without Android Auto in their cars, once they try it and get a taste of it.
Before the magic happens, users must connect a smartphone to their vehicle's infotainment system because the operating system and all the apps run on the smartphone. However, while the Android Auto icon becomes visible on the car's screen, the smartphone's screen goes into lock mode.
Clients interested in using the Android Auto car system have to buy a Sonata model featuring Hyundai’s 8-inch navigation screen. But if you already have a 2015 Sonata with the sat-nav system function, Hyundai will perform a free software update at any of its dealerships.
Lastly, Hyundai says later this summer users will be able to download the software to a USB stick.
Also, officials have high hopes and expect the product to make an immediate impact. Why so much enthusiasm, you might think? Well, it's because Hyundai Motor America believes buyers won't be able to live without Android Auto in their cars, once they try it and get a taste of it.
Alright, but what does Android Auto offer?
To put it simple, it's a lot like its rival product, Apple's Car Play. The Android Auto app was launched earlier this year in March, and allows drivers to access Google Maps, Google Now, Google voice search, text by voice, and lots of music and messaging apps from their car's dashboard.Before the magic happens, users must connect a smartphone to their vehicle's infotainment system because the operating system and all the apps run on the smartphone. However, while the Android Auto icon becomes visible on the car's screen, the smartphone's screen goes into lock mode.
Clients interested in using the Android Auto car system have to buy a Sonata model featuring Hyundai’s 8-inch navigation screen. But if you already have a 2015 Sonata with the sat-nav system function, Hyundai will perform a free software update at any of its dealerships.
Lastly, Hyundai says later this summer users will be able to download the software to a USB stick.
Google News