- android auto capability will become available in bmw vehicles starting in mid-2020, as part of the live cockpit option.
- bmw announced last week that it will provide apple carplay capability for free in its vehicles after previously charging $80 annually for the service.
- bmw has an edge over competitors because it provides wireless connection to both android auto and apple carplay.
in less than a week, bmw went from charging for apple carplay and not offering android auto capability in its vehicles at all to making carplay access free and announcing android will be available in its cars starting in mid-2020.
perhaps bmw owners made the manufacturer aware that they weren't happy with the connectivity options available and bmw responded, or maybe it was just a matter of time. either way, android auto will be integrated into bmw vehicles starting in mid-2020—the kicker is that it is still optional as part of bmw's live cockpit, while many less deluxe brands offer the capability as standard.
android auto links android phones to the screen of the car, making it easier to access apps and communication features on the phone. many, but still not all, manufacturers have integrated both apple carplay and android auto into their cars.
bmw's apple carplay and android auto functionality have an advantage over competitors in that it can be accessed wirelessly. bmw didn't announce any plans to charge a fee for either service.