Hyundai Sonata Becomes the First Car to Incorporate Android Auto

South-Korean automaker, Hyundai, has become the first carmaker to offer Google's ‘Android Auto’ system built into its cars. This car is the company’s 2015 Sonata model with Navigation model, which is ready to hit the market.

This innovation by Google is an answer to Apple’s CarPlay. Android Auto connects to the driver’s smartphone and helps him access the phone’s applications by voice, steering wheel controls or touchscreen graphics on the dashboard. It, thus, offers a hands-free experience, letting the driver use applications like Google Maps, Now, messaging, phone calling and music. A number of third-party apps are also compatible with the infotainment system, such as iHeartRadio, Spotify, TuneIn, NPR, Stitcher and Skype. The note-worthy feature of Android Auto is that, it locks the smartphone’s screen while in use to help keep drivers' eyes on the road.

However, for Android Auto to function properly, users require the Android 5.0 Lollipop operating system or later. Along with this, they need the Android Auto companion app on their smartphone to integrate Android Auto into Sonata's screen and controls. Next, the phone needs to be connected to the car’s USB port, with a Micro-USB cable. As soon as the user plugs in his phone into the car, he will be prompted to download the Android Auto App from Google Play, if he has not done so already.

The company said that android smartphone users with a 2015 Sonata with Navigation capabilities, could ask dealers to download the system for free. Other vehicles due for an Android Auto upgrade this year include the Sonata Sport, Eco, Limited, Sport 2.0T and Limited 2.0T models.

Google, however, intends to offer the Android Auto feature on 28 different brands by the year 2016. Other than Hyundai, other carmakers who have shown interest in incorporating Android Auto into their vehicles, include, Audi, Bentley, Honda, Ford and Nissan.