New Volvo infotainment system "as good as a smartphone"

  • Creator
    Topic
  • #94255
    Brydo

      Article

      Google-developed software used in the new XC40 Recharge is based on Android OS and allows third-party apps

      Volvo claims its new infotainment system, based on Google’s Android operating system (OS) and developed with the help of the American tech giant, will “be as good to use as your mobile phone”.

      The new system will make its debut in the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2 electric cars and then be rolled out across the Swedish brands’ model line-ups. It replaces Volvo’s bespoke system with an Android-based OS that uses apps such as Google Maps to offer sat-nav with real-time traffic inforamtion.

      Users will be able to download third-party apps – such as Spotify or Amazon Music – for functions including navigation and media streaming. The aim is to offer a suite of online services without the need for a smartphone to be connected.

      The system can be controlled via touchscreen or voice control, with the latter powered by the Google Assistant system that also operates on devices such as smartphones and smart speakers.

      Volvo’s software boss, Ödgärd Andersson, said the new system offers “a radical improvement” and has voice control software “well above anything that’s in any car right now”.

      The system is permanently online and so will be able to transmit the car’s location and other data, but Andersson suggested that drivers shouldn’t have privacy concerns, because they will have to opt in to sharing information through third-party apps.

      “It will work fine if you don’t want to share anything with Google,” he said, “but there’s great personalisation if you do. Users can customise it to their own needs and wishes.”

    Viewing 2 replies - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
    • Author
      Replies
    • #94262
      martino

        so Brydo is that on the xc40 thats on the scheme just know

        #94318
        Brydo

          No Martino, this system will be introduced to the new all electric XC40 which has just been released, but, as far as i can make out, should be added to all XC40 from next year.

        Viewing 2 replies - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
        • You must be logged in to reply to this topic.