Aptiv is powering Android Automotive OS with Google Automotive Services to give manufacturers better control of their in-cabin experience.
As the smartphones have become central to how we manage our lives, consumers increasingly expect that same level of digital experience in their vehicle. But users get often less than 5 to 10 applications which is far from satisfying. Also there is poor data management and integration of software that can open the door to bad actors and lead to safety, security and privacy threats. As a system integrator with deep software and domain knowledge, Aptiv claims to know this well.
The company is working with Volvo powering the world’s first vehicle infotainment solution with native Google Automotive Services – called “GAS.” The Polestar 2, followed shortly by the Volvo XC40, will be the first vehicles to natively run GAS, which supports built-in access to services such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play.
According to the company, the Volvo XC40 is also the first Volvo to receive real-time over the air (OTA) software and operating system updates, as well as automotive apps created by the global Android developer community. That means the extensive catalog of popular apps that are already available – developed by Google, Volvo Cars, or third party app developers – will only continue to grow.
GAS, combined with OTA updates, will allow the vehicle to evolve and improve over time, maintaining a fresh solution over the life of the vehicle, rather than being at its peak when it leaves the factory.
As Lead Device and Development Partner for Google, Aptiv lead the development and integration of the platform, while gaining early access to Android updates and features. The company supported essential software requirements unique to automotive applications such as vehicle interface, comfort, and control, helping to improve the platform in the process. And, on the hardware side, Aptiv devices are used by Google as a reference design for development.
Aptiv used an agile engineering framework – dubbed “Continuous Integration” – to bring this project to life, with engineers around the globe, in ‘scrums’ or teams. These teams partnered with Volvo and Google to efficiently move this project on its execution.
The solution empowers Volvo to provide a unique experience and brand identity for their vehicle by giving them back control of the differentiating software that powered the in-cabin user experience.
Source: Press Release
