Volvo stops Google Assistant, Maps and Play Store in new infotainment system

Volvo is equipping the next generation of its Sensus infotainment system with integration with Google Assistant, Maps and the Play Store. The system is based on Android and is the result of a collaboration between Volvo and Google.

Google Assistant makes it possible to use voice control, for example, to set the air conditioning, play music or plan a route. In addition to Assistant, Maps and the Play Store, Volvo is integrating other services from Google in the new version of Sensus, the carmaker says in an announcement. It is not yet clear which services are involved.

A year ago, Google announced partnerships with Volvo and Audi. At the time, Volvo said it would integrate new Android-based infotainment systems into its cars within two years. At the current announcement, Volvo says the new system is expected ‘in a few years’ time.

The Sensus infotainment system consists of an on-board computer that runs a modified Android version. That is different from Google’s own Android Auto, a system that makes it possible to connect an Android smartphone to the screen of a car dashboard.