Hyundai said today that it will be the first auto maker to offer Android Auto.
Starting with the 2015 Sonata, Android users will be able to plug their phones into their cars and have details like navigation, messaging, and calls appear on the vehicle’s 8-inch touch screen. The phone, meanwhile, locks when it plugs in so drivers don’t sneak a peek while behind the wheel.
Hyundai plans to expand Android Auto to other models in the future, too.
“Android Auto aligns with Hyundai’s core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness, and simplicity,” Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America, said in a statement.
Those who already have a 2015 Sonata with navigation features (Sonata Sport, Eco, Limited, Sport 2.0T, and Limited 2.0T models) can get the Android Auto software update at their Hyundai dealer. This summer, they will be able to download it to a USB stick and do the update themselves.
Google first tipped Android Auto at last year’s Google I/O developer conference. It emerged from the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA), of which Hyundai is a member.
But while auto makers have voiced support for Android Auto over the last year, it didn’t make its official debut until last month on smartphones and a few aftermarket dashboard units. And now it’s coming to Hyundai cars.
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At this point, it’s only available on Android devices with Lollipop. As of May 4, just under 10 percent of Android devices were running Google’s next-gen mobile OS.
Hyundai is also among the many car makers that will support Apple CarPlay, which offers features similar to Android Auto, but for iOS.
Look for more details about Android in the car at this week’s Google I/O; rumors tip a deeper integration of Android in the car.
