Google Set to Unveil In-Car Operating System

Google Inc. will show software developers its first in-car operating system later this month, unnamed sources tell Automotive News.

The platform for Google's Android-based smartphones will be functionally similar to the CarPlay platform unveiled in March by Apple Inc. for the iPhone operating system. Both enable smartphone apps to be accessed through the vehicle's built-in controls and display screen.

Google's system was developed through its Open Automotive Alliance consortium, whose members include Audi, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai/Kia and visual computing expert NVIDIA.

Apple CarPlay debuted earlier this year in the Ferrari FF four-seater. Apple says the system will appear later this year in select models from Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo.

Google's consortium said earlier this year its operating system also would appear in cars by the end of 2014.