Android Auto arrives in India; to team up with Hyundai and others

After over a year of its global launch, Android Auto was finally introduced in India, along with 17 other countries, on Tuesday. This smartphone integration tool allows the infotainment system of a car to stream music, relay messages and calls and provide directions.

Android Auto is a version of the popular smartphone OS tweaked to suit cars. It is compatible with several car brands including Hyundai, Audi, Honda, Mahindra and Chevrolet. Kenwood and Pioneer have also launched systems attuned with the app.

“Android Auto was designed with safety in mind,” Google said in a statement. “With a simple and intuitive interface, integrated steering wheel controls, and powerful new voice actions, it's designed to minimise distraction so you can stay focused on the road.”

To use the app, one needs an Android Auto compatible vehicle or aftermarket radio and an Android phone running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher. Once an Android phone is connected to the compatible vehicle or radio, Android Auto will allow you to control music, make or receive calls, navigate and respond to messages through the vehicle’s infotainment screen, without having to take the phone out. 

Android Auto has already been available in several major countries like Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Spain, the UK, and the US. And after the expansion announcement through an emojified tweet by the ‘Android’ handle on Tuesday, Android Auto’s reach has now spread to a total of 29 countries.

The updated list includes various other big markets like Brazil, Russia, Puerto Rico, Argentina etc. The system has also been updated with multiple bug fixes and performance improvements since the launch.