Google teams up with Fiat Chrysler for in-car android system

Google said it is collaborating with automaker Fiat Chrysler for in-car system technology called Uconnect and which relies on Android 7.0 to deliver a range of features such as Android app compatibility plus more traditional in-car controls like AC and heat, and with terrestrial radio.

Demonstration of the technology will be on display at the ongoing Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2017 taking place in Las Vegas, United States according to Google’s press release.

“Google is committed to building Android as a turn-key automotive platform that integrates deeply with the vehicle in a safe and seamless way,” according to Patrick Brady, director of Android Engineering, Google. “This collaboration with FCA brings together the industry standard for connected car systems with Android to create powerful infotainment systems designed for the digital age.”

Google’s partnership with Chrysler goes beyond the Android Auto model which aims to create a simplified, driver-friendly and distraction reducing version of the Android. Google’s parent company, Alphabet, has been working together with the automaker on their self-driving car ambition.

The latest collaboration is seen as strategy to enable the technology company establish its leadership on car dashboards in such a way that is more integrated with automaker software and systems themselves.

Chris Barman, head of Electrical Engineering, Fiat Chrysler noted “With Android, we are able to maintain our unique and intuitive Uconnect user interface, all while integrating our easy-to-use systems with Android’s features and ecosystem of applications.”

This development gives Google a crucial advantage over Apple which is also considering ways to integrate its mobile features into its users’ in-car systems. Unlike Google, experts believe Apple is unlikely to release –even share, control over the look and feel of the interface to automakers, since it has never had that kind of relationships with OEMs with either iOS or modern OSX/macOS software.

On the other hand, online tech platform TechCrunch projects that Android’s flexibility could prove crucial to getting it more presence in vehicles heading into a time when the in-car experience becomes something new and valuable, when autonomous vehicles begin to gain ground.

According to Google’s statement, CES attendees can get one-on-one demonstrations of the Uconnect system powered by Android 7.0 Nougat, which includes core infotainment features.

 

FRANK ELEANYA