Google: Manufacturers can’t customize Android on smartwatch, TV and car

It will not be possible for manufacturers to adapt Android for smartwatches, televisions and the car with, for example, their own skin. According to Google, the interface for such applications is an important part of the user experience.

That said Google CEO David Burke in a conversation with Arstechnica. The internet giant wants to ensure that Android has a consistent interface on smartwatches, televisions and in the car. As a result, his company retains control of the user interface, rather than allowing manufacturers to make adjustments. In this way, it also remains possible for Google to release software updates for Android devices.

According to Burke, manufacturers can add their own branding and software services, but nothing can be changed in the way Android is controlled. The CEO states that with Android on the smartwatch, TV or car, the interface is more part of the product than on smartphones and tablets. On such mobile devices, manufacturers are free to customize the interface, which most major manufacturers do.

Google announced Android for the TV, called Android TV, and for the car, called Android Auto, at its developer conference I/O. The company previously announced Android Wear for wearables such as smartwatches. Several manufacturers have already indicated that they will work with Google to release smartwatches, televisions and cars with Android.