Hyundai Is the First Automaker to Launch Android Auto
Hyundai today became the first car company to launch Android Auto on production vehicles. The voice-enabled Android Auto is premiering on the 2015 Sonata with Navigation at dealerships nationwide, and will later become available on other Hyundai models.
Android Auto not only brings a high technology experience to Hyundai owners, but also improves safety. Android Auto helps keep drivers' eyes and attention on the road by integrating the advanced driving-related functions of the user's smartphone with the familiar centralized screen, physical controls and car microphone. Furthermore, the smartphone's screen becomes "locked," so drivers are not tempted to look down and interact with their phones directly while Android Auto is in use.
The first time an owner plugs his phone into the Sonata, the phone will prompt the download of the Android Auto companion app from Google Play. Users of Android Auto will instantly recognize familiar Android phone applications, such as Google Maps, Google Now, messaging, phone calling, and Google Play. These applications can be controlled by voice, steering wheel controls, and touchscreen. Android Auto also will offer many popular third-party audio apps that owners have on their phones, including iHeartRadio, Spotify, TuneIn, NPR, Stitcher, Skype, TextMe, and many more.
The Google Now card-based experience provides suggested locations and travel times based on the user's searches, calendar entries, and home and office locations, as well as weather information and "now playing" information for music streamed via the phone. Owners can bring their personal reminders, suggested destinations, calendar appointments, and music preferences with them when they get in their car. Android Auto automatically pairs with the Sonata for phone calls through Bluetooth when connected for the first time via USB.
Owners will need the Android 5.0 Lollipop operating system or later, and the Android Auto companion app on their compatible phone to integrate Android Auto into Sonata's screen and controls. A micro USB cable is required to connect the phone to the car's USB port.