Google Looking Beyond Android Auto With New On-Board OS: Report

Google has only this year unveiled its new Android Auto infotainment platform, but already the tech giant is understood to be preparing an even more advanced version.

Revealed in June, Android Auto is positioned as Google’s answer to Apple Carplay - which, when integrated by carmakers into their new models, allows an enhanced level of connectivity between smartphones and the car’s infotainment system.

Among those enhanced functions are Google- or Apple-developed versions of satellite navigation, phone calling and text messaging, entertainment and other features.

All, however, require connectivity with a smartphone in order to work.

According to business paper Reuters, that will change when the next version of Android - already dubbed ‘Android M’ - debuts around this time next year.

The report claims that the the new Android operating system will be able to operate as an installed on-board infotainment system, independent of a smartphone.