There’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Those systems allow for your Apple or Google-run smartphone to run applications on your in-car infotainment screen. Now, Polestar is taking that technology a step further, making Google’s Android Automotive OS its operating system (OS) for the car’s infotainment system.
The Polestar 2, the company’s first all-electric crossover, is the first vehicle in the world to feature the Android Automotive OS system. This OS has Google apps and services built in, meaning you don’t have to plug in your smartphone to access them. Each new Polestar 2 comes with three years of internet connectivity included in the purchase price.
The Polestar 2’s interior is modern and features clean design.Photo courtesy of Polestar
Using the Google Play Store on the centrally-located display, owners are able to download a range of media apps that allow them to enjoy podcasts, the radio, audiobooks, and music. Google Assistant is integrated into the car so drivers and their passengers can use it to delver voice-controlled demands just as they would at home with their Google Home device.
“By partnering with Google, we ensure that the infotainment system stays as cutting edge in the future as it is today,” comments Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. “Developers are able to join the open ecosystem to adapt appropriate apps for use in the car, and create new ones. Customers will benefit from a car that seamlessly integrates into their digital lives.”
Behind the scenes, Google and Polestar are making it easier to app developers to create products that interact with the vehicle in such a way that it allows the model and its owners to adhere to driver-distraction guidelines and restrictions. According to a release,
“Polestar is also releasing a new version of its system emulator for the Android Studio development platform, which now features a full implementation of embedded Google apps and services. This makes it possible for developers to test voice control and other integrations in their apps while work is in progress, allowing them to see and control the apps in the same way as users will inside Polestar 2.”
Apps scheduled to be available in Polestar 2 include: podcast apps Castbox and Pocket Casts; library app Libby; radio apps iHeartRadio, Swedish Radio Play and NRK Radio; Bauer Media Audio’s Magic Radio and Radioplayer apps; music and podcast app Spotify.
“At Spotify, we want to make listening to your favourite music and podcasts easily accessible – whether that’s at home, on the go, or in the car,” says Sten Garmark, Spotify VP of Product. “We’re looking forward to introducing our innovative integration with the new Polestar 2 infotainment system on Google’s Android Automotive platform. This collaboration creates a seamless, high-quality listening experience for our users on the road.”
Google apps and services in Polestar 2 consists of the Google Play Store for downloading apps, Google Maps for navigation, and Google Assistant for voice control.
