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Google Certifies 70 Apps for Android Automotive OS

  //automotive-transportation.news-articles.net/co .. certifies-70-apps-for-android-automotive-os.html
  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 1:53 GMT by Android Police
      Locales: UNITED STATES, GERMANY, JAPAN, KOREA REPUBLIC OF, CHINA

Friday, February 6th, 2026 - Google's Android Automotive operating system is rapidly maturing, and a significant milestone has been reached: the certification and launch of 70 dedicated applications. This isn't simply about mirroring smartphone apps onto a car's screen - it represents a fundamental shift in how we interact with our vehicles, transforming them into connected computing platforms.

For years, drivers have relied on aftermarket solutions or limited factory infotainment systems. Android Auto offered a step forward, projecting a smartphone interface onto the car's display. However, Android Automotive goes further, embedding the operating system directly into the vehicle. This native integration unlocks capabilities beyond simple mirroring, paving the way for richer, more seamless, and safer in-car experiences.

Beyond Mirroring: The Power of a Native OS

The distinction between Android Auto and Android Automotive is crucial. Android Auto is, at its core, a smartphone companion. It leverages the phone's processing power and data connection. Android Automotive, however, is self-sufficient. Apps run directly on the car's hardware, utilizing the vehicle's own connectivity and sensors. This has several benefits:

• Performance: Dedicated processing power means faster load times and smoother performance for in-car apps.
• Reliability: The system isn't reliant on a potentially unstable smartphone connection.
• Deep Integration: Automotive apps can access vehicle data (with user permission, of course) like battery status (for EVs), speed, and location, enabling unique features and functionalities.
• Over-the-Air Updates: Like smartphones, Android Automotive allows for continuous software updates and feature enhancements, keeping the system fresh and secure.

A Diverse App Ecosystem: Safety, Navigation, Entertainment, and More

The newly certified 70 apps cover a broad spectrum of categories, indicating Google's commitment to building a comprehensive in-car ecosystem. Safety is paramount, with apps like Nauto (driver monitoring) and Roadside USA (emergency assistance) taking center stage. Navigation is also heavily represented, with Google Maps and Here leading the charge, alongside alternatives like Moovit and Mapbox, providing users with choice and potentially localized expertise.

Entertainment options are plentiful, boasting established players like Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, Plex, and even Karaoke Cloud, suggesting a push towards transforming commutes into more enjoyable experiences. The inclusion of apps like Fitbit and Vivalink points towards a growing focus on wellness and driver health monitoring. Furthermore, productivity apps such as Microsoft and voice assistants like Google Assistant are integrated for hands-free control and task management.

Notably, the list includes several apps focused on electric vehicle (EV) charging, including ChargePoint, EvGateway, Fastned, and PlugShare. This demonstrates the importance of catering to the rapidly expanding EV market, providing drivers with seamless access to charging networks and payment solutions. Apps like EasyPark and ParkMobile also address a common pain point for drivers - finding and paying for parking.

The full list of 70 apps showcases a carefully curated selection, prioritizing applications that adhere to Google's stringent automotive design guidelines, ensuring usability, safety, and a consistent user experience.

Initial Rollout and Future Growth

While the potential is enormous, the initial rollout of these 70 apps will be limited to a select few vehicle models. This phased approach allows Google and its automotive partners to gather real-world data, refine the system, and ensure a smooth user experience before broader adoption. However, Google anticipates substantial growth in the app catalog over the coming months and years.

Industry analysts predict that the Android Automotive platform will become a dominant force in the automotive industry, challenging traditional infotainment systems and driving innovation in connected car services. The success of Android Automotive hinges on continued app development, strong partnerships with automakers, and a relentless focus on user experience. The current list of 70 apps represents just the beginning of a much larger, more connected automotive future.