MyHyundai App Will Integrate Android Auto into Vehicle Infotainment Systems
Hyundai will soon release a new Android App, MyHyundai, that adds new vehicle-specific functionality, the likes of which we’ve never seen before. The automaker says that it’s “one of the first OEMs to show such an application” and brings us closer to the goal of never needing to exit Android Auto to access another user interface in order to use the other functions of the car when connected to the its infotainment system.
For now, the app doesn’t control any key aspects of the car (like heating and cooling), but it does give access to ancillary functions like Hyundai’s roadside assistance and service appointment scheduling, a monthly vehicle report to call out any service issues, and a Valet Alert setting, which notifies you on your phone if a valet takes your car outside a predefined boundary. Handy!
When using the Hyundai Service option, the app will even show the preferred and nearest dealers with quick action buttons that allow the owner to call the dealership. The app will then provide navigation for how to get there.
MyHyundai solves what many users see as a growing problem. While Android Auto and CarPlay are picking up in popularity, there’s still an ongoing battle for control over the user experience in vehicle dashboards.
Google and Apple have their own user interfaces, while automakers have developed their own separate UIs. Up until now, most automakers have been unwilling to relinquish control, preferring Android Auto and CarPlay be interacted with as apps inside their systems. Hyundai, however, is ahead of the curve as usual and has chosen to give up some control to Silicon Valley in favor of a better, more seamless user experience. Notably, Hyundai was the first automaker to market with support for Android Auto, which debuted in the 2015 Sonata.
Prior to this new change, Android Auto was the same on every single Android Auto-compatible car; it had the same user interface and the same features. If you wanted to access a vehicle-specific feature, you’d have to exit out of the Android Auto interface entirely and go to the application you wanted. Understandably, this was a pain and just created one more obstacle for users to deal with.
MyHyundai will be easily available to Hyundai owners once it comes out later this year. All you have to do is update your phone and your vehicle’s infotainment software to be MyHyundai compatible. Ultimately, the app is expected to increase safety since it will help minimize driver distraction by reducing the number of steps needed to complete tasks.
Need a crash course on how to use your vehicle’s infotainment system? Rosen Hyundai is happy to help! Come visit us for information or a demonstration any day.
