One of the big pre-CES rumours this year was that Google would be announcing a big move for its Android software into cars at the gadget trade show. Yesterday, that happened with something called the – a title referring to the Open Handset Alliance that sits behind Android itself.
“There’s still an important device that isn’t yet connected as seamlessly to the other screens in our lives – the car,” noted Android engineering director Patrick Brady in a blog post. “To help address that gap, today we’re announcing a new partnership that will bring Android, the world’s largest open platform, to the open road.” Partners include Audi, GM, Honda and Hyundai in the carmaking industry.
“Together with our OAA partners, we’re working to enable new forms of integration with Android devices, and adapting Android for the car to make driving safer, easier and more enjoyable for everyone,” wrote Brady, citing music apps as a key part of this. Competing directly with Apple’s “iOS in the Car” initiative, announced last summer with partners including, er, Audi, Honda and Hyundai.
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