Qualcomm Incorporated on Wednesday announced that its subsidiary, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., is workingwith Google on an initiative bringing the power of Android OS embedded directly into the car. The initiative aims to help car makers create powerful infotainment systems using Android as a common platform, making it easier to add connected services and applications while delivering a safer and more intuitive driving experience. The goal is to accelerate innovation in the car with an approach that offers openness, customization, and scale.
 
The concept car functions demonstrated at Google I/O run onthe Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 Automotive processor for connected cars and infotainment. With its power-efficient custom-designed CPU, stunning GPU performance, lightning fast X12 LTE modem capable of Cat 12 speeds, and powerful video processing capabilities, the flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 Automotive processor is empowering automakers with scalable solutions that are connected, smart and aware.

Car manufacturers, automotive suppliers and developers can create Android-powered infotainment solutions using Automotive Development Platforms (ADP) for Snapdragon 820A and Snapdragon 602A processors. The ADPs, available for purchase through Intrinsyc, will provide access to the platform for developing, testing, optimizing and showcasing next-generation infotainment solutions. Using this platform, OEMs, developers and system integrators can significantly reduce their software development time and risk and begin final production software qualification earlier.

“Google is committed to building Android into a platform that fuels innovation in the automotive space,” said Patrick Brady, director of Android engineering, Google. “We are in close collaboration with industry leaderssuch as Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to bring the best of Android into the automobile in a safe and seamless way. This initiative represents the next step in bringing the power of an open platform and rich ecosystem that enables car makers to create powerful infotainment systems designed for the digital age.”

“Snapdragon Automotive processors, combined with Android, will enable the automotive ecosystem to create cutting-edge connected car and infotainment platforms,” said Nakul Duggal, vice president, product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “Android as the infotainment OS in the car will allow drivers and passengers to interact with their vehicles in new and exciting ways. We are pleased to be working with Google and the automotive ecosystem to usher in the next generation of in-car experiences.”

Qualcomm Technologies and Google will be demonstrating the Android in-car concept powered by Snapdragon 820A processor in the Sandbox during Google I/O today through Friday, May 20th.