At Wednesday's I/O conference, Google unveiled Android Auto, its answer to Apple's CarPlay system. In compatible vehicles---the first of which are due by the end of 2014---users will be able to use their Android phone's interface through the car's dashboard screen to navigate with Google Maps, play Spotify, send texts, and more.
There are sneaky elements to Google's plan for Android Auto, but don't worry about that just yet. For now, all you really need to know is which carmakers support which platform.
As it stands now, drivers who really want a Fiat 500 or Audi A3 should make sure they've got an Android. Ferrari, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz customers should go with Apple, though we assume they can afford a few smartphones.
These guys are Android Auto exclusive so far:
- Acura
- Bentley
- Infiniti
- Maserati
- Renault
- Seat
- Skoda
- Volkswagen
And these brands are currently working with only Apple's CarPlay:
- BMW
- Citroen
- Ferrari
- Jaguar-Land Rover
- Mercedes-Benz
- Peugeot
- Toyota
A few brands have already signed up with both tech giants:
- Abarth
- Alfa Romeo
- Audi
- Chevrolet
- Chrysler
- Dodge
- Fiat
- Ford
- Honda
- Hyundai
- Kia
- Jeep
- Mazda
- Mitsubishi
- Nissan
- Opel
- RAM
- Subaru
- Suzuki
- Volvo
Since most car companies won't want a potential customer's smartphone preference to decide their choice of car, we expect this list to grow and we'll continue updating it going forward.
Update 6/27/2014: Audi has announced it will support CarPlay on its 2015 models in addition to Android Auto.
Update 7/1/2014: Apple has added Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Mazda and Ram to its list of automakers that have promised support for CarPlay in future models.
