Google Bringing Video Conferencing Apps To Its Android-UI Driving Software

Google announced the addition of video conferencing apps to its Android-based built-in car software on Wednesday (May 11) at the Google I/O annual conference. Google says the Android Auto software will be available in 200 million cars by the end of the year. The update will specifically add Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Webex by Cisco functionality, allowing drivers to "join important meetings without taking your eyes off the road." “While we would all love to listen to music or catch up on our favorite podcast during our commute, sometimes traffic or work has other plans,” David Dandeneau, an engineering lead on the project, said when introducing the new functionality at the meeting.“This feature allows you to join a scheduled meeting without fumbling for your phone.”

It is just one of a slew of new features introduced recently by automakers that are gradually transforming cars into glorified computers. Android Auto users can now watch YouTube videos and play video games while parked, according to Google.

Some safety advocates question the move, citing an increase in mileage death rates even during the pandemic, when many drivers were relieved of their daily commutes and spent less time on the road.