Honda and Google joined hands for in-vehicle connected services

KUALA LUMPUR: Earlier this year, Ford announced its partnership with Google for its future in-car technologies and now it’s Honda joining hands with the tech giant. Honda and Google have recently announced their new deal that involves the integration of Google’s in-vehicle connected service into the next-gen Honda cars; the first one to come up in the second half of 2022 in North America.

However, the two companies have already been collaborating for the Android platform since 2015. Honda first introduced the Android Auto with the Accord in 2016 to optimize smartphone functions for drivers. It allows Honda vehicles to offer UX that customers “can enjoy safely and comfortably.” Well, with this new deal, the Japanese automaker intends to further enhance the UX for its customers.

The key functions of Google built-in are

• Voice assistant: The Google Assistant can be installed on the onboard Display Audio system. While keeping hands on the steering wheel and attention on the road, the driver can perform tasks like send messages, get directions, control media, vehicle functions, etc through voice control.

• Navigation: With the integration of Google Maps, the familiar and personalized maps which the customers already enjoy on their smartphone, can be used on the car’s Display Audio system. Drivers can also talk to Google for questions like estimated time of arrival, closest gas stations or EV charging stations, etc.
• In-vehicle apps: With Google Play, Honda customers will be able to download their favorite apps. 

“It is our great pleasure to be able to offer new value for mobility and people’s daily lives all around the world by combining Honda’s strengths in advanced technologies in automobile development and Google’s strengths in innovative information technologies. Honda will continue to take on challenges to create new value while rapidly addressing the transformation of mobility without being bound by the conventional wisdom of the automobile industry,” said Satoshi Takami, Operating Executive, Chief Officer in charge of MaaS Operations, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

While Honda plans to begin integrating Google’s built-in service for North American models first, we hope the feature will soon expand to global markets, including Malaysia.

Also read: All-new 2022 Honda BR-V launched in Indonesia, full details revealed