Volvo Cars expands collaboration with Google to develop Android software for smarter driving
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Volvo Cars will become the lead development partner for Android Automotive, allowing it to deploy the latest versions of Google's operating system faster than industry rivals, the companies said on Wednesday.
Announced at Google's I/O developer conference in California, the partnership will see Volvo's flagship EX90 electric SUV ship later this year with Android 15 — the latest version of Google's mobile OS. Other automakers often wait up to two years for similar updates.
'We're going to be able to be fast in bringing new capabilities, new features and new experiences to our customers,' said Alwin Bakkenes, Volvo's head of global software engineering.
Volvo currently runs Android 13 across its vehicles, but the upgraded collaboration means Google engineers will now test new software directly in Volvo cars, helping them evaluate user experiences in real-world conditions.
'This really gives us an edge in building fantastic customer experiences,' Bakkenes said.
As part of the announcement, Google also confirmed that its new Gemini artificial intelligence model will soon power in-car interactions across Android Auto and vehicles with Google built-in — including Volvo models.
Unlike standard voice assistants, Gemini will enable more natural conversations while driving. Instead of issuing fixed commands, drivers can simply speak in a conversational tone to find the best route, check for stops along the way, or request summaries of unread messages.
'For example, Gemini can find you a charging station on the way to the post office that's also near a park, so you can go for a walk while your car is charging,' Google said.
Gemini will also offer features like real-time news briefings, book synopses for book club commutes, and even language translation in replies to messages — all without drivers having to touch their screens.
Bakkenes said such hands-free experiences are essential for safety and comfort: 'This creates a human-centric experience.'
The AI model will first become available in Android Auto in the coming months, with a broader rollout to cars with Google built-in to follow.
Volvo and Google have worked together for over a decade, but this deeper collaboration signals a turning point in the convergence of automotive and mobile technologies — with Volvo now positioned at the forefront of in-car software innovation.
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