Google has responded to accusations that it is using Android Auto, its platform for in-car infotainment systems deployed in popular cars all over the United States, is snooping on customers and collecting copious amounts of data to be sent back to its Mountain View headquarters and used for advertising purposes.
In a statement sent to The Verge, Google denies claims made in a report by car-centric publication Motor Trend that it collects a huge swath of information the publication describes as a "complete OBD2 (on-board diagnostics) dump." The report, published Oct. 7, says Porsche opted to use Apple's CarPlay platform over Android Auto in the 2017 Porsche 911 because the former only collects information about whether the car is moving while CarPlay is in use.
"We take privacy very seriously and do not collect the data the Motor Trend article claims such as throttle position, oil temp and coolant temp," says a Google spokesperson.
The statement does not categorically deny Motor Trend's claim that Android Auto collects information about vehicle speeds and throttle position. However, Google does point out that Android Auto requires users to opt in to share the information upon first signing in to Android Auto. The same opt-in requirement is also mandatory when first using Google services and third-party apps on the platform, giving users a clear notion of what types of information will be accessed.
Meanwhile, automakers General Motors and Ford have mailed their statements to TechCrunch, saying Android Auto on their vehicles have limited access to customer information. Specifically, the car makers say Android Auto collects only essential information such as GPS and whether the car is in park or drive mode.
"We don't know what Porsche was required to provide Google, but we provide a very limited set of vehicle data that helps us ensure that the Android Auto customer experience is optimal and safe for the user," says GM. "For example, the system needs to know if the vehicle is in park or drive in order to apply the necessary lock-outs to certain keyboard functions. We don't provide any data that isn't necessary for the use of Android Auto."
Ford says Android Auto only collects data required used for navigation, such as GPS, and for changing the interface from day to night modes and back.
