Google has been making a push into the automotive market, and according to a report, its in-car infotainment platform, Android Auto, can act as a standalone mobile app, with Facebook announcing it is integrating it into Messenger.
According to Facebook, with the integration into Messenger, Android Auto users can listen and reply to texts using voice commands. In order for it to work, users will first need to get Facebook Messenger installed on their Android devices. “Android Auto allows drivers to easily and safely access features, like navigation, music and messaging, while on the road, through a mobile app or a supported built-in vehicle display,” the social media company wrote on its website. “The Messenger integration enables people with Android Auto to listen to and reply to messages using voice commands.”
Facebook said Android Auto will play messages when the user — or, in this case, driver — touches the speaker icon. Drivers can also give Android Auto voice commands to reply or message a friend on Messenger. There’s also an “I’m driving right now” button to quickly send this message as a reply, Facebook said.
The move on the part of Google comes as the auto marketplace is getting crowded from a tech perspective. Take Amazon, which, earlier this year, rolled out Amazon Vehicles, providing a variety of tools for customers looking to really dig down into the details of an auto purchase, including product specs and curated reviews from drivers. The goal is to create an “automotive community” where users can share and compare their car buying experience.
The site provides prices — but not a place to buy as of yet. According to automotive head Adam Goestsch, Amazon is trying to “support customers during one of the most important, research-intensive purchases in their lives.”
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