Rumour: Toyota to finally add Android Auto

According to a media report, Toyota will soon add Android Auto compatibility to its cars. It is reported that an official announcement for the same could come as early as October this year.

Toyota had resisted adding Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to its cars over safety and security concerns. After announcing Apple CarPlay for 2019 model year cars, the Japanese carmaker would also be adding support for Google’s mobile platform. At present, Toyota users have to use SmartDeviceLink, a telematics system from Ford, to make use of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The solution is not the best as it limits apps that can be used with the car as well as prevents them from accessing car data.

It is reported that over 80% of smartphone users use Google’s Android while the rest use Apple’s iOS software. The move aims to target potential customers who stayed away from Toyota cars due to the lack of this mobile connectivity.

Source: Bloomberg