Future Honda models will have built-in Google services

Honda infotainment systems to use Google operating system in the coming years

The infotainment system in current Honda models has always looked and performed well. Outside of the usual Bluetooth connectivity, these also come with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. But soon, the automaker plans to make it even better.

Honda announced that they have partnered with Google for its upcoming infotainment systems. Specifically, Honda will integrate Google's embedded Android Automotive OS, and it includes the company's voice-activated Assistant, Google Maps, and other apps as standard. Owners will also be able to add new applications through Google Play.

The first Honda models to come with the new Google embedded operating system will arrive in 2022. Honda didn't specifically say which models those will be, but the automaker did say it will debut in an “all-new model that will come to the market in the second half of 2022 in North America”. When it will reach other countries like the Philippines, is still unknown.

“It is our great pleasure to be able to offer new value for mobility and people’s daily lives all around the world by combining Honda’s strengths in advanced technologies in automobile development and Google’s strengths in innovative information technologies,” said Satoshi Takami, Honda operations chief.

Do note that Google's Android Automotive is different from the Android Auto we know. The former is an operating system built into the infotainment system of a vehicle. Meanwhile, Android Auto is the system that projects your smartphone and displays it on the infotainment system, and serves as the rival to Apple's CarPlay system.

“Honda will continue to take on challenges to create new value while rapidly addressing the transformation of mobility without being bound by the conventional wisdom of the automobile industry,” Takami added.

With Honda soon to use Android Automotive, the automaker joins a growing list of companies using Google's system. These include Ford, Volvo, and General Motors, to name a few.

Hopefully, it won't take too long before the new Google-powered infotainment system makes its way to ASEAN-spec models.