The first car featuring Android Auto has finally been released, almost a year after the in-car infotainment system was first announced at Google I/O 2014.
The car is a 2015 Hyundai Sonata, and Android Auto is available as an option starting today.
"Android Auto aligns with Hyundai's core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness and simplicity," said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "We launched this highly anticipated feature on our best-selling Sonata, adding to our promise of value. With the launch of Android Auto, we provide more owners with the experience of cutting-edge technology."
Being the first to offer a car with Android Auto built in is a big deal for Hyundai, with many having waited for the infotainment system to finally be an offer. To purchase Android Auto built into the Sonata, customers will have to select the $4,100 "tech package" option. Those who already have the 2015 Sonata with the tech package installed will be able to head to their local dealer to have Android Auto freely activated.
In fact, many suggest that systems like Android Auto could completely change how we travel in our cars. Once someone tries Android Auto, they are unlikely to want to go back to not using it, at least according to Cason Grover, a senior manager at Hyundai Motors America. According to Grover, one day, he got in his car for a business trip, and as soon as it was on, he was asked if he wanted to navigate to the airport. Android Auto, in communication with Google Now, had pulled his flight information from his emails. Many suggest that Android Auto handles tasks far more easily than other in-car infotainment systems.
One of the main draws of Android Auto is that it essentially brings a user's smartphone data to an in-dash system that is easy to use and safe for drivers. Not only does this mean that a driver can remain in touch while driving, but it also means that Google Now can help a user get to where they need to go without having to input a number of steps.
Hyundai is one manufacturer in the Open Automotive Alliance, which was started by Hyundai, Audi, General Motors and Honda, and is headed by Google itself. The alliance was started in early 2014 and eventually led to the release of Android Auto.
While Hyundai is the only manufacturer currently offering Android Auto, a total of 27 other car manufacturers have said that they will release cars that use the infotainment system.
Of course, Google isn't the only company looking to enter the auto industry. Apple has announced its own in-car infotainment system, called CarPlay. CarPlay will be rolling out this year as well, with Hyundai, among many other car manufacturers, also signed up to offer CarPlay as an option.
