Google Developing Car-Specific Android Operating System

Even Microsoft has something up its sleeve. Google showed off its future concept for Android Auto earlier this year and promised that it would be available by the end of 2014. That didn't happen, but the technology giant has put a tentative plan in place for its challenger in this crowded field.

According to two, unnamed sources speaking to Reuters, the latest Android Auto is now set to debut in around a year to coincide with the launch of Google's latest Android M operating system. Similar to CarPlay, this take on infotainment replicates users' smartphone interface directly on the dashboard, but conceivably it can take vehicle integration even further. Assuming automakers allow this to happen, Android Auto can interface with a model's diagnostic information, including things like the fuel gauge, rearview camera, navigation and other sensors. Unlike the current version, the latest update also doesn't require a phone to be plugged into the car to make the tech work, either.

One of the sources indicated to Reuters that Google could use some of this collected data for advertising. "You can get access to GPS location, where you stop, where you travel everyday, your speed, your fuel level, where you stop for gas," the person said.

During the announcement of Android Auto in June, Google said Ford, General Motors, FCA, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan and Volkswagen were all potential partners, but the exact integration wasn't discussed. More details might be one the way, though, because Hyundai is publicizing plans to show off a new 7-inch infotainment system at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show that supports both CarPlay and Android Auto.