Android-Based Volvo Multimedia System to Have Google Services Embedded

Volvo is working on the next generation of its Sensus infotainment system, which will run Google's Android operating system, and announced today that the next-gen Sensus will have several Google services embedded.

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Sensus has impressed and frustrated us in its current form; its nifty embedded features are hampered by slow loading times and the lack of physical buttons as alternatives. There's no word yet on how switching to Android might affect loading times, unfortunately, but Volvo has been attempting to make Sensus load more quickly for a while.

Integrating Google Assistant will allow drivers to adjust climate or audio settings via voice commands, with the goal of keeping eyes on the road and improving safety. The Google Play Store also will be part of the next generation of Sensus, enabling Volvo owners to download a variety of apps directly to the infotainment system. Google Maps integration will give drivers real-time-updating traffic information while navigating to their destination.

An additional benefit of this update will be the ability to provide over-the-air updates to Sensus, keeping cars up-to-date even after purchase. There's nothing quite like purchasing a car two weeks before it receives a crucial multimedia update that isn't available until you can take your car back to a dealership (if it's available at all).

Volvo anticipates the next generation of Sensus will launch "a couple of years from now" but has not yet provided fixed dates.

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