It was just last May that Volvo announced its partnership with Google and the desire to bring Android-powered infotainment to the masses. It now looks like it will keep its promise with new models getting the Android-based system, along with Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant, and Google Play store, within the next couple of years. That means that by 2020, your brand-new Volvo could have some of that Android goodness.

Volvo’s Android Infotainment System

So, what will Android in a Volvo mean to you? Well, it will actually mean a lot. First off, you’ll get google maps navigation along with real-time traffic data and route suggestions. You’ll also be able to use voice commands to control things like your air conditioning, music, and messaging. Someday, you may even be able to control things like your windshield wipers, headlights, and even interior lighting, but that’s all speculation for this moment in time. Moving on, you’ll also get access to the Google Play Store where thousands of apps are available. Naturally, this will be ported and optimized specifically for Volvo’s Android-based system, so you might not be able to get Angry Birds or Candy Crush, but you shouldn’t be playing games in the car anyway, should you?

“The Google partnership is an important strategic alliance for Volvo Cars,” said Henrik Green, senior vice president of R&D for Volvo Cars, in a statement. “The Android platform, Google services and Google’s working relationship with app developers in-house and worldwide will help us further improve the Volvo car experience.”

For what it’s worth, you still have to wait a little while to take advantage of Volvo’s next-gen infotainment system. It’s still at least two years out, so it probably won’t be available until at least 2020, and you’ll probably need to buy a 2021 model to actually get it. Until then, Volvo’s current system isn’t that bad. It’s much better than the system it replaced, but we’ve played around with it, and it’s still not quite as efficient or convenient as a system that’s powered by Android. But, better things are on the horizon. I guess it might be best to hold off on getting a new car for a few more years, then, huh?

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