Android Auto still drives the future of IoT

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With the end of Android Things, some thought that Google’s commitment to Internet of Things technology was dwindling. However, several IoT apps are now coming to Android Auto, which means that developers can field apps designed to connect to Android’s own navigation assistant and help with a wider array of activities.

We review Google’s decision and discuss Android’s suitability as the foundation of IoT beyond the steering wheel.

Android Auto Welcomes IoT Apps

First, the big news. Prior to this update, a select few apps were supported for Android Auto (and Automotive) such as YouTube Music, WhatsApp, and navigation apps. Now it’s not just those heavy hitters, as IoT apps have been given the green light.

It means that IoT apps can connect smart homes and other home automation tech to Android Auto, within reason. There are limits on functionalities that could distract driving, which is understandable. However, things like opening garage doors or turning lights on with your phone are fair game and will soon be possible when relevant apps have been developed.

Android Is the Most Compatible OS

It’s the latest example of what Android does best – create a service that gathers a user base, then open the door to third-party developers, who bring their own magic and enhance the brand. In this case, the introduction of IoT apps reminds many of Android Things and its cancellation over a year ago. While IoT never took off with Android Things, Google-supported systems like Nest have found their place and still use the Android platform. The future of IoT is with Android, solely due to its unrivaled compatibility.

IoT and home automation have become more popular in the intervening years. Android’s device compatibility makes them the obvious candidate for IoT networks. Many different developers and manufacturers create for the Android platform, so they can be linked through Android with very little effort. This is less common for other operating systems, where it is easier to run into proprietary setbacks.

Where there is proprietary support, sites like Google’s Gamesnacks service is available for passengers or if the car is stopped, adding games to every Android Auto vehicle. It provides users with a secure hub for many different kinds of gaming, specifically through HTML5. As Auto broadens the apps it allows onto the platform, it’s worth it for consumers to scope out a platform’s safety first. Tools exist for this in every niche and industry, contenders in the entertainment industry would be sites like CasinoReviews.com, which rates sites based on their safety and security features, for example. Likewise, similar websites cover the wide range of third-party apps that are available on the Android platform and may be made available for Auto in the future.

Another great feature that we have previously discussed on AndroidHeadlines.com is the Galaxy Ring, Samsung’s interest in a wearable that connects to smartphones and monitors health metrics in real-time. With so many brands leading the charge, and with projects that genuinely improve lives, Android looks set to be the king of compatibility for the foreseeable future.

IoT Security Concerns

One of the main concerns with IoT is security. Smart environments can use high-grade cybersecurity but if there’s a weak link somewhere, that will get exploited. A smart office could become compromised due to an unprotected network connection to a smart light switch, for example. Cloud security experts TrendMicro.com have a great rundown of IoT security concerns.

The open-sourced nature of Android means that it benefits from a wide audience of hobbyists and engineers who can view, modify, and enhance its code. This means that vulnerabilities are more visible and can be pointed out or rectified with relative ease. On the flip side, malware attacks are more common on the Android platform, maybe because its code is more visible.

Fortunately, malware is easily fended off if users visit trusted sites and services. There are entire websites built around rating services on their security, among other factors. Use these to avoid the spread of malware across connected devices, especially for services that leverage sensitive data in some way, such as financial information or identifying documents.

The Android Auto news comes as a welcome surprise, not least to those who use navigation apps. If these IoT apps are popular, it may show that smart home automation support has grown in popularity since the days of Android Things. In an increasingly digitized world, the demand for IoT features will only get louder.



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