Android and iOS are battling hard for supremacy in the mobile devices space and both the operating systems are expected to wage war in the auto industry as well.
Google and German car maker Audi are expected to announce at the 2014 International CES, that they are partnering to develop in-car infotainment systems based on the Android operating system.
The aim of Google and Audi collaboration will be to offer drivers and passengers an array of in-car services such as access to music, navigation, apps and other infotainment features that are similar to the ones available on an Android-powered device.
The Google and Audi partnership will compete with Apple's 'iOS in the Car' feature, which is focused on integrating a user's iPhone with their car's on-board infotainment system. Apple revealed the 'iOS in the Car' feature at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June this year. 'iOS in the Car' was supposed to feature in iOS 7, but it never came along with the latest Apple operating system.
iOS in the Car is expected to deliver an interface that will let users control music, messages, maps and more using the car's on-board infotainment system. Apple has already signed agreements with many automakers such as BMW, Mercedes, Honda and more.
"iOS in the Car seamlessly integrates your iOS device - and the iOS experience - with your in-dash system. If your vehicle is equipped with iOS in the Car, you can connect your iPhone 5 and interact with it using the car's built-in display and controls or Siri Eyes Free. Now you can easily and safely make phone calls, access your music, send and receive messages, get directions and more. It's all designed to let iPhone focus on what you need, so you can focus on the road," per Apple.
Earlier in December this year, Honda introduced the next-generation HondaLink Technology and a new 7-inch touch screen Display Audio system for the 2014 Honda Civic. The Display Audio system will offer a smartphone-like functionality to the drivers and passengers, who can touch, swipe and pinch the display to access maps, contacts and media.
"The car is becoming the ultimate mobile device," said Thilo Koslowski, an analyst at the research firm Gartner Inc. who specializes in advanced in-car electronics. "Apple and Google see that and are trying to line up allies to bring their technology into the vehicle."
The 2014 International CES 2014 is just a few days from now and customers will be eager to find more details about the Google and Audi partnership plans.
