Google Working on an In-Car Infotainment System to Counter Apple's CarPlay

Google has been trying to ensure a bigger presence on cars' dashboards for a while now, engaging in a fierce battle for dashboard supremacy with Apple, which is touting its CarPlay System as the ideal solution for a safe mobile experience in cars. However, Google has managed to establish partnership with the world's largest automakers, including the likes of Hyundai, Audi, and GM, providing them with a car-friendly version of its Android operating system, but the company is well aware that in order to be able to keep up with its biggest competitor, it has to offer a better product that will be superior to Apple's CarPlay.

That is why Google has been working on a new operating system that could be integrated directly into cars, and according to a report from Reuters, the new software is ready for launch sometime next year. The new version of Google's Android OS will be called Android M, and will basically be an updated version of the Android Auto system, which was launched earlier this year. The main difference between Android M and Android Auto will be that the former will be specifically developed for cars, and will be able to be built directly into a car's dashboard, unlike the latter, which requires an Android smartphone to be plugged into the dashboard, so that the driver can use the features on their phones through their car's infotainment screen. This way, drivers will be able to access their Google accounts even if the batteries on their smartphones or other Android devices are dead, which is not possible with Google's current platform for cars.

A car equipped with Android M will allow drivers to use all services provided by Google, without having to connect their phones to the car, which is definitely much more convenient. For instance, they could view Google maps directly on the dashboard screen, stream music and videos, as well as use Google Now, a service that helps users keep track of their appointments and reservations, provides locations and events reminders, and basically, serves as a personal assistant.

However, even though there are many obvious advantages of integrating Android M into cars, auto manufacturers will probably be hesitant to only sell models with integrated Android infotainment systems, as it would deter potential customers who prefer other operating systems, such as Apple's platforms, from buying their cars. Also, Google will offer the same system to all automakers that are part of the Open Automotive Alliance, including Honda, Chrysler, Volvo, Nissan, Kia, Mazda, and many more, which would interfere with their efforts for brand differentiation. Finally, there is the issue of whether Android M will be able to start immediately after the car's engine is turned on, which some experts have their doubts about. If the search giant manages to solve these issues soon, Android M may turn to be just what it needs to establish supremacy in the in-car infotainment market, and give Apple a run for its money. Google's new mobile platform for cars was showcased at the CES in Las Vegas in January, 2015.