Google allegedly has a new Android operating system -- Android M -- in the works, which will make its way to cars.
The new operating system will reportedly project the apps on a smartphone to a compatible car's infotainment screen, negating the need for cars to connect to the handsets to be on the Internet.
"Google Inc. is laying the groundwork for a version of Android that would be built directly into cars, sources said, allowing drivers to enjoy all the benefits of the Internet without even plugging in their smartphones," reported Reuters.
The Android M platform, which is supposedly in development, will apparently be completely independent from other devices -- a departure from the current Android Auto in-car system from Google.
Android Auto currently requires a user to plug in their smartphone to a compatible car. The supported apps are then displayed on the dashboard screen. Android M, on the other hand, will be a "major step up" from Android Auto, which was announced by Google earlier in 2014 and gives a user access to their smartphone content while driving.
According to two unnamed sources of Reuters, Google is looking at pushing out the Android M platform for automobiles "in a year or so."
It is anticipated that consumers will catch the first glimpse of Android Auto-compatible automobiles at the CES 2015 in January at Las Vegas, Nevada.
Currently, it is not known what "M" in Android M stands for, but knowing Google's penchant for naming its operating systems after sweets, perhaps the M is for Meringue or Marzipan?
In the even Android M is a success, it could become a staple for powering a vehicle's navigation and entertainment systems. Moreover, Apple's CarPlay could potentially see some stiff competition from Android M.
Moreover, thanks to direct integration with a vehicle, Google would be able to tap into some features newer cars come equipped with such as fuel gauge, sensor etc.
Experts, however, are skeptical of Google's seemingly ambitious plans and aver that the company may face several business and technical hurdles, which include convincing automakers to assimilate its platform into their cars.
Google is staying mum on the topic and has declined to comment.
