Android Automotive OS (AAOS) is a special version of Android designed for cars. It goes through a regular annual update cycle just like Android for mobile devices. Although Google has not yet officially presented Android Automotive 15, detailed notes for this version are now available. These reveal the new features and changes it brings.
Bluetooth Audio Streaming in Android Automotive
One of the most significant innovations is the ability to stream sound from the car to Bluetooth headphones. This function is available in the sound settings and allows passengers to listen to the sound in privacy while the driver concentrates on driving. However, it should be noted that the system only supports one active audio stream via Bluetooth.
Support for streaming audio to Bluetooth headphones required a major overhaul of Android’s Bluetooth architecture. Previously, Android allowed devices to act as either the source or the destination of a Bluetooth connection, but they could not fulfill both roles at the same time. With this update, it is now possible for a device to handle both roles, although not at the same time. This brings useful options, especially for parents, who can entertain children while driving by allowing them to watch or listen to content independently of the driver.
Dock a ambient view
Another major new feature in Android Automotive 15 is the addition of the “dock” app, which allows users to pin their favorite apps to the bottom of the screen for quick access. Google also added support for so-called “ambient view,” a mode that allows automakers to create personalized screens when the main display isn’t actively being used. This mode can display, for example, time, weather or other information that can be customized according to the car brand.
Hotspot
Android Automotive 15 also adds a persistent hotspot feature, allowing you to maintain a Wi-Fi connection between drives. This feature will be useful for users who frequently use their car’s hotspot. Another interesting change is improved support for HD and DAB radio, which will allow better integration of these functions into vehicle systems.
In addition to these major news, Android Automotive 15 also includes a number of other changes that focus primarily on the core of the platform and are of particular importance to AAOS developers. Since most of the changes in Android are focused on mobile devices, the development of new features for cars must be done with security in mind. Even so, AAOS users can expect further improvements and more and more applications adapted for use in cars.
Are you looking forward to the improvements in Android Automotive?
Source: AndroidAuthority
Source: www.svetandroida.cz
