Google Deal Will Put Android Into GM, Honda Vehicles
Jan. 6, 2014— -- Google was reportedly talking with Audi about bringing its operating system to new cars, but the search giant's plans are much bigger.
Patrick Brady, the director of Android Engineering, announced that in addition to Audi, Google will be partnering with GM, Honda and Hyundai, as well as with the chipmaker NVIDIA, in the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA).
"Today, millions of people already bring Android phones and tablets into their cars, but it's not yet a driving-optimized experience," he wrote on Android's blog. "Putting Android in the car will bring drivers apps and services they already know and love."
The OAA's website says that one of its goals is to better integrate Android smartphones and tablets with the car, similar to Apple's program iOS in the Car. However, it's also working on making the car itself an Android device. The OAA adds that customers can expect to see the first cars with Android integration by the end of 2014.
Karl Brauer, a senior analyst at Kelley Blue Book, said that even though a car maker may be a member of the OAA, it may not have to be an Android-exclusive company. "Honda and GM have also aligned with Apple," he told ABC News. "Maybe what you'll end up with is cars capable of integrating two or three different operating systems."
