Android Automotive

Android Automotive
source
Name	Android Automotive
Developer	Google
Released	15 March 2017
Latest release version	14
Latest release date	04 October 2023
Programming language	Java, C, C++
Operating system	Linux
Platform	ARM, x86-64
Genre	Automotive software
License	Apache License 2.0
Website	https://source.android.com/docs/devices/automotive/start/what_automotive

Android Automotive. It is a full-stack, open-source platform developed by Google for powering in-vehicle infotainment systems, distinct from the smartphone projection system Android Auto. Built on the core Android framework, it provides a customizable operating system that car manufacturers can integrate directly into a vehicle's hardware. The platform enables a native vehicle experience with support for critical automotive functions, media, navigation, and voice assistants, aiming to create a more cohesive and updatable digital cockpit.

Overview

As a derivative of the ubiquitous Android platform, it leverages the robust Linux kernel and the extensive developer ecosystem fostered by Google. The system is designed to run independently on an automotive-grade system-on-chip, providing the primary user interface for a vehicle's center console. Key components include a tailored user interface, vehicle-specific APIs for accessing car data via Vehicle HAL, and deep integration with services like Google Assistant and Google Maps. This approach allows partners such as Volvo, General Motors, and Ford to offer a familiar, app-based experience while maintaining control over branding and vehicle integration.

History and development

The project was publicly announced by Google at the Google I/O developer conference in 2017, with the first production vehicle being the Polestar 2 from Volvo's Polestar brand. Its development is intrinsically linked to the Open Automotive Alliance, an industry group founded by Google and several automakers to accelerate the adoption of Android in cars. Major milestones include the integration of the platform into the Renault Mégane E-Tech Electric and its selection by General Motors for its future EV lineup, signaling broad industry acceptance. Ongoing development is managed within the Android Open Source Project, with new versions aligned with the main Android version history.

Features and architecture

The architecture is a specialized variant of the standard Android stack, incorporating a Vehicle HAL to abstract signals from the CAN bus and other vehicle networks. It supports multiple user profiles, over-the-air updates via Google Play Services, and native applications distributed through the Google Play Store. Core features often include split-screen capabilities, voice control via Google Assistant, and turn-by-turn navigation using Google Maps. The system also provides APIs for third-party developers to create apps that can interact with vehicle systems, subject to strict permissions, and includes a dedicated Car Service to manage lifecycle and priority of automotive applications.

Adoption and implementation

Major automotive manufacturers have adopted the platform for their latest models. Early adopters include the Volvo Car Group, which uses it across models like the XC40 Recharge, and General Motors, which plans to deploy it in millions of vehicles starting with models like the Cadillac Lyriq. Other implementers are Renault, Honda, and Ford for certain markets. The implementation varies by OEM; some, like Polestar, use a pure Google-built experience, while others, such as Stellantis, use a forked version to create a custom interface, as seen in the Peugeot i-Cockpit.

Comparison with other platforms

It competes directly with other embedded automotive operating systems like QNX from BlackBerry, which is widely used for its reliability in critical systems, and Automotive Grade Linux, a collaborative open-source project led by the Linux Foundation. Unlike smartphone mirroring systems such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it is a full operating system installed on the vehicle's hardware, offering deeper vehicle integration and independence from a mobile device. Compared to Tesla's proprietary software, it offers OEMs a standardized, vendor-neutral platform with access to the Google ecosystem.

Security and privacy

Security is built upon the foundational security model of the Android platform, including regular security patches from Google and the use of a sandboxed application environment. The system employs a multi-layered approach with the Linux kernel's security features, mandatory SELinux policies, and a secure boot process to ensure integrity. Privacy controls are managed through user consent dialogs and permissions, with data handling governed by the policies of the OEM and, where Google Mobile Services are included, Google's own privacy practices. The isolated nature of the Vehicle HAL helps limit application access to sensitive vehicle data.

Category:Android (operating system) Category:Automotive software Category:Google software Category:In-vehicle infotainment