If you have sat in a car built within the last 10–15 years, you will know the struggle: cheap, low-quality infotainment software that feels so low-quality that you wouldn’t want to give it to your child as a standalone tablet. This is especially prevalent now that cars are becoming increasingly software-based, with screens growing so large that they are a common target of complaints.

Your car is getting more Android software

Google has announced a new version of its Android Automotive open-source operating system (AAOS) for more software-defined vehicles. While Android Automotive used to operate exclusively in the car’s infotainment system, Google will now bring its “open infrastructure” to non-safety parts of the car’s internal computer system.

The tech giant noted in its blog post that “Modern cars are quickly becoming computers on wheels.” It also noted significant fragmentation in the industry, with many manufacturers using different, often mismatched software modules from multiple suppliers. Now, Google wants to become the de facto software provider for the automotive industry.

What it brings

The company emphasizes that it primarily aims to provide a better experience for drivers. With the new AAOS, the in-car experience should feel “much more cohesive, and the latest features will reach your driveway faster.”

With this software, Google is promising faster over-the-air updates, better voice assistants (thankfully), and more proactive vehicle maintenance alerts. Other non-driving functions, such as climate control, lighting, and seat adjustment, will also fall under Android’s control.

For automakers, the new system will promise lower software development costs and the opportunity to focus on branding and other higher-priority areas. With Google providing the software’s base code and language, automakers will also be free to design unique experiences for their customers.

Google says it is already working with companies like Renault Group (no surprise that Renault jumped on this) and Qualcomm to bring this new version of Android Automotive to more cars. According to The Verge, automakers such as Polestar, General Motors, Nissan and Honda already use the regular Android Automotive.

Essentially, this is Google trying to compete with Apple and persuade companies to hand over control of software development. For example, Apple released CarPlay Ultra last year, which took over more functions, such as HVAC and radio controls.