Google's Chrome Browser to Cruise into Cars, Maps to Gain Further EV Offerings

Jan 10, 2024 02:59 AM EST

IPHOME SMARTPHONE APP IOS — (Photo : PEXELS/ Brett Jordan)

At CES 2024, Google unveiled its expanded collaboration with automakers, introducing Google Apps pre-installed in selected vehicles. Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln are really paving the road this year by bringing Google Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store into specific models.

Google Works to Enhance EV Offerings

Porsche is hopping on board by 2025. And that's not all-Google's stepping up its game for electric vehicle drivers with some cool updates to Maps through Android Auto.

Initially available for Ford's F-150 Lightning and Mach-E, the updated feature provides insights on estimated charge levels upon arrival, along with details on charging station locations and expected charging durations for extended trips. This upgrade, formerly unique to Android Automotive vehicles, might relieve charging issues for more Android Auto users.

According to Digital Trends, if an individual owns a vehicle equipped with Google's built-in infotainment system, they're in for some exciting updates. Google plans to introduce a complete Chrome browser to cars, initially launching in beta with Polestar and Volvo.

This allows users to browse the web while parked, a feature long enjoyed and highly favored in Teslas. Additionally, Google is broadening its entertainment choices by incorporating PBS Kids and Crunchyroll. Moreover, there's a fresh weather interface provided by The Weather Channel, offering forecasts, alerts, and radar functionality.

Google's Send to Car Button

Additionally, Google is introducing a fresh feature called the "send to car" button within the Google Maps mobile app. Users can plan a route before leaving and have it ready when they get in their car with this innovation.

Another appealing feature that improves the Google built-in experience. Furthermore, the expansion of Google built-in is on the horizon, with Nissan, Ford, and Lincoln planning to introduce additional models integrated with this software suite in 2024.

Reports shared that users will receive hourly forecasts, alerts, and a "Trip View" radar directly on their dashboard, eliminating the need to constantly check their phones. Additionally, Google has revealed plans to widen the availability of its digital car keys to specific Volvo models. This advancement will enable owners to unlock, lock, and even start their cars using their Android phone.

Google Automotive Services (GAS)

As per The Verge, "Google built-in" is the term used by Google to market its product called Google Automotive Services (GAS). This licensed product is offered to car manufacturers who wish to integrate specific features such as Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store as the default options on their infotainment screens.

GAS operates atop Android Automotive, which refers to the vehicle's native operating system running on the Android platform. Consistently, the company has been steadily introducing fresh features to both Android Auto and Google built-in over recent years.

Additionally, significant automakers like GM have limited access to phone-mirroring programs such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Certain vehicles equipped with Android Automotive will soon incorporate Chrome browsing, commencing with specific Volvo and Polestar models.

Polestar's CEO, Thomas Ingenlath, expressed the company's anticipation for the arrival of Chrome browsing in their cars, noting the temporary use of the Vivaldi browser until its introduction.