Hyundai Adopts Android Auto and CarPlay

Hyundai, the fifth largest automotive group in the world, is the latest in the list of automakers to adopt Google’s Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay systems. The Japanese carmaker also mulls increasing car models featuring the two systems and expanding the technology application of car infotainment systems in the future.

In a statement, a Hyundai-Kia Motors official said that the company would continue to beef up its efforts to offer convenience to more drivers through Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto systems, and to expand car models with the systems in the future.

Hyundai’s 2016 Sonata model, which was rolled out in the North American market in May 2015, features Google’s Android Auto system. Meanwhile, both the Android Auto and the CarPlay has just arrived in the 2017 Elantra, called Avante in Korea, in January this year.

Android Auto and CarPlay are integrated programs connecting Android and iPhone apps to the vehicle’s infotainment system, allowing drivers to easily use their functions through a touch screen and Siri voice control. Particularly, the systems make it easy to utilize navigation systems, make phone calls and stream music via the vehicle’s digital display so that drivers can concentrate on driving.

CarPlay enables drivers to easily operate functions by activating Siri through the steering wheel’s voice button and touching the screen with their fingers. Since the system is connected with Apple maps, it can also forecast where motorists most likely prefer to go using addresses from their texts, email, calendars and contacts. Moreover, it provides drivers with a safe way to call back missed calls, listen to voice messages and send text messages while driving. CarPlay is already employed or will be employed in over 100 models from 23 automotive brands, including Hyundai and Kia Motors, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen.

Meanwhile, Android Auto can be employed after drivers connect their smartphones to the vehicles and touch an Android Auto icon on the display. This system can also make phone calls, answer phone calls, and receive and send text messages. Moreover, it can stream music, set up the destination, as well as check phone calls and calendar events through voice command. To date, Android Auto is offered in 11 countries such as Germany, USA and the UK.

Kia Motors gave a demo of CarPlay and Android Auto at this year’s CES in January.