Google’s Android Auto interface for cars has quite a reach, and works very well, but it’s about to get a lot better with Google Assistant being pushed out to head units in the US this week.
As a platform, Android Auto is quite heavily reliant on voice input allowing you to more safely control your stereo and most importantly keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
While heavily reliant on voice input, Android Auto has been reliant on an older voice input model – but that’s about to end. Unlike the old Google Now style voice input, the new Google Assistant input allows you to access all your apps including those for Smart Devices (Hey Google, turn on my outside lights), as well as listen to playlists, get directions and lots more.
The update to Google Assistant in Android Auto also brings tighter integration with the car systems, with Google saying that cars from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Hyundai, Kia and Fiat Chrysler will also let you check your fuel level, lock doors, and more.
There’s no announcement on international expansion of the Assistant for Android Auto as yet, but it shouldn’t be too far away once Google gets some solid install info from the US users.
