Volvo will embed Google Assistant and Maps into future cars

Volvo announced today that its next-generation Sensus infotainment system, which will run on Android, will have the Google Assistant, Google Maps and the Google Play Store embedded within it. Adding Google Maps has some obvious benefits for drivers while the Google Assistant will give users voice control over in-car functions like air conditioning as well as music and messaging. "Bringing Google services into Volvo cars will accelerate innovation in connectivity and boost our development in applications and connected services," Henrik Green, Volvo senior VP of research and development, said in a statement. "Soon, Volvo drivers will have direct access to thousands of in-car apps that make daily life easier and the connected in-car experience more enjoyable."

Google and Volvo announced last year that they were teaming up to build Android into future cars. Such a set up will allow drivers to use their infotainment system independently of their smartphones since the system itself will operate on Android. Volvo says that the first Android-based system will launch in a couple of years.