… for a fee.
Swedish carmaker Volvo, garnering acclaim around the world for its incredible rebirth following its acquisition by Geely, has always sort of fell behind in one very specific regard. Their Sensus infotainment system, displayed on a beautiful portrait-styled screen, offered Apple CarPlay from the get-go, but lacked similar integration for Android devices, leaving a large number of prospective buyers and owners left out somewhat.
But it seems that things are now on the mend. Volvo UK has announced the availability of Android Auto integration in all Series 90 models, namely the S90 & V90, as well as the XC90. However, it’s a cost option, bundled together with a ‘Smartphone Integration Package.’
The GBP300 option also throws in a second USB port. The connectivity is, at present, limited to Android devices running version 5.0 (Lollipop) and higher. Android Auto integration allows the Volvo Sensus system to access apps like Maps, Play Music, voice control, and the like. It also allows for sending and receiving texts, which can be read out and dictated by voice, though Volvo is quick to say that that isn’t strictly advisable.
Jon Wakefield, managing director of Volvo UK, said “It’s more important than ever for our customers to stay connected while on the move. Our Apple CarPlay integration was already best in the business, and the introduction of Android Auto brings our class-leading smartphone integration to a whole new audience.”
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