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Future Volvo Vehicles to Use Android-Based Infotainment System

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Future Volvo Android infotainment stack

Volvo, Google announce partnership for Android-based infotainment

Volvo has announced that it is partnering with Google to base its next-generation infotainment system on the Android platform. Volvo says that it will build Android capabilities into next-generation vehicles anticipated to launch within the next two years.

“With the advent of Android we will embrace a rich ecosystem while keeping our iconic Volvo user interface. We will offer hundreds of popular apps and the best integrated experience in this broad, connected environment,” said Henrik Green, Senior Vice President, Research & Development, Volvo Car Group.

The practicality of an Android-based infotainment system is such that drivers of these future vehicles will be able to utilize apps developed by Volvo, Google, or third parties without having to connect to a smartphone ala Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. While the system itself will be built for optimal functionality with Android devices, Volvo has stated that it will also offer Apple CarPlay capabilities for iPhone users.

Among the advantages of using Android, Volvo states, are increased speed and flexibility in development and a more personalized in-vehicle experience.

“We are making an important strategic step with the Google partnership,” added Green. “Google’s platform and services will enhance the user experience by enabling more personalization possibilities, while Android will offer increased flexibility from a development perspective.”

“We’re thrilled to partner with Volvo to bring Android into their next-generation connected cars,” said Patrick Brady, Vice President of Android Engineering at Google. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to deliver a more seamless experience to Volvo drivers through a full-featured infotainment platform and rich ecosystem of Android applications and Google services.”

Volvo is also working with Google to provide owners of more recent Volvo vehicles with Sensus Navigation with Google Local Search, which provides search results specifically tailored to one’s coordinates.