Google on Tuesday further advanced its Android Auto platform by finally announcing the availability of the platform's API for developers. Using the API and UX guidelines, developers will now be able to build Auto-optimised Android apps for audio and messaging.
In addition, Google is also letting developers extend their existing Android 5.0 Lollipop (API Level 21 or higher) apps "to work in the car without having to worry about vehicle-specific hardware differences." The added bonus will give developers a wider reach across various car manufacturers, regions and models.
The Android Auto APIs will enable developers to make car-optimised audio and messaging apps. While the audio apps will enable users to browse through audio tracks, podcasts, and news from their Android devices to the car, the messaging apps will "receive incoming notifications, read messages aloud, and send replies via voice from the car," as mentioned by Google's Product Manager, Daniel Holle, on the company's Developer blog.
It is worth noting that although the Android Auto app APIs have been made live by the search giant, developers won't be able to publish their apps yet. More app categories will also arrive soon. The developers can however, stay up-to-date by joining the firm's Android Auto Developers Google+ community.
Google has already begun working with partners like iHeartRadio, Joyride, Kik, MLB.com, NPR, Pandora, PocketCasts, Songza, SoundCloud, Spotify, Stitcher, TextMe, textPlus, TuneIn, Umano, and WhatsApp for the Android Auto platform.
First demoed in June during the Google I/O conference in San Francisco, the Android Auto platform is also backed by Google-led Open Automotive Alliance (OAA) group formed to help the firm roll out Android Auto in a standardised form to cars.
The Google-led OAA group now includes Audi, General Motors, Google, Honda, Hyundai, LG and graphics chip maker Nvidia. It was announced earlier this year at CES 2014 as a project venture to promote innovation in the car industry.
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