It’s always great to see Android Auto coming to a slew of new vehicles and this time around it is making its way to three Maserati models. This includes the crossover, 2017 Levante as well as the 2017 Ghibli and Quattroporte which are both sedans. Now if you’ve been following the Android Auto page on the official Android website, you probably noticed that Maserati had been on the list of having support for Android Auto. But no details were available until a few days ago, when Google updated the page.
Google choose Maserati to show off their crazy concept car at Google I/O this past summer. This Maserati Quattroporte was essentially stripped down and Google tossed in a few 4K displays, with the entire car running on Android N (at the time, it was not named “Nougat”). So Maserati and Google do have a bit of a history together, even if it is a pretty short one. With Android Auto coming to these three 2017 models, the functionality should be available later this year (as the new model year typically starts rolling out in the fall, depending on the make and model). However there is no specific information about availability just yet.
Those that may need a refresher course on what Android Auto actually is, it basically extends your smartphone’s functionality to the infotainment system in your car. This means that you’ll be able to use Google Maps for navigation on the big screen in the center of the car. As well as using steering wheel controls for navigating through Android Auto and the different apps it supports. Other functionality includes making and receiving calls through your phone using the speakers in the car. As well as listening to your favorite music. You can stream from apps like Spotify, Google Play Music, and many others. Android Auto is already available in a slew of new vehicles, and some auto makers are updating older model years to get Android Auto functionality. Mainly Hyundai and Kia, who have gone as far back as their 2014 model year, with updates. Meaning that some Kia owners can get Android Auto without having to buy a brand new car.