Google's New Dashcam App for Android Automotive: What It Means for Car Safety and Security

Dashcam App for Android Automotive

Google has developed a dashcam application designed specifically for vehicles equipped with Android Automotive (AAOS). This app allows drivers to utilize video recording features for enhanced safety and security. Unlike some misleading reports, this app is not available for the phone-based platform known as Android Auto.

Key Points:

• The dashcam app integrates directly with AAOS, providing continuous video recording capabilities.
• Detailed guidelines are provided on Google’s developer page to assist automakers in implementing the functionality.
• Technical and legal concerns may be reasons why this app is not widely available yet.
• Misinformation has spread due to confusion between Android Automotive and Android Auto, which are distinct platforms.

Additional Information:

• The article critiques other publications for inaccurately reporting that the dashcam app is part of an Android Auto update.
• Google Maps ETA feature has been removed from the instrument cluster in some AAOS vehicles.
• The 2025 Ford Explorer will come with Android Automotive, alongside support for CarPlay and Android Auto.