Android-based Automotive Assistance

There are so many Vehicle assistance systems or in other words, devices that communicate with the vehicle giving information, plus providing multimedia support. So many features are said to be embedded in these, But its a matter of fact how well these features cater the purpose, and how reliable they are. If taken a closer look at the universal car multimedia systems today, Aftermarket products which are fixed in most of the new vehicles like Toyota premio, allion, axio, prius and Honda vezel etc, unless the factory fitted ones are little bit better, it seems that they are less user friendly and less reliable. Navigation menus are different to each and its less supportive for a first time user. Touch sensitivity is like a first generation touch phone. 

With the emerging of smart mobile phones, there came a need of android based technology for car as well, but no one seems to be concerned about this until the recent past google came up with a solution. Namely "Android Auto" which is designed with safety in mind. With a simple and intuitive interface, integrated steering wheel controls, and powerful new voice actions, it's designed to minimize distraction so you can stay focused on the road.

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"Android Auto" is more part of the Open Automotive Alliance, which was announced on January 6, 2014, and is a joint effort with 28 automobile manufacturers including Audi, Fiat, Ford, Mitsubishi, Honda and mobile tech supplier Nvidia. In May 2015

The standard offers drivers control over GPS mapping/navigation, music playback, SMS, telephony, and web search; both touchscreen and button-controlled head unit displays will be supported, although hands-free operation through voice commands is emphasized to ensure safe driving. Compatible apps include Google maps, Google Play music, MLB at Bat,Spotify, etc.

image via http://www.connectedly.com/

Hyundai claimed to be the first manufacturer to offer Android Auto, making it available in their product 2015 Hyundai Sonata. Moreover they have enabled the customers to update their current 2015 Sonata at a dealership or via self-service starting June 16, 2015.

image via http://www.technewstoday.com/

image via http://www.droid-life.com/

But the most aspired part, car data gathering and evaluation module are still under development, It can be seen as a great leap of the automobile history.