If you make the Polestar 2 your next car of choice, you’ll be able to enjoy its much talked about Android-powered infotainment system, featuring built-in Google apps and services.
You also get three year’s worth of Internet connectivity included in the purchase price, which means you’ll be able to enjoy podcasts, radio, audio books and music, while also using the Google Assistant – which you can operate via voice commands.
“Hey Google, play some music,” is just one of the many commands you can give and the software does the rest.
Watch: Polestar 2 Is A Competent EV, But Now As Fun To Drive As Tesla’s Model 3
“By partnering with Google, we ensure that the infotainment system stays as cutting edge in the future as it is today,” said Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath. “Developers are able to join the open ecosystem to adapt appropriate apps for use in the car, and create new ones. Customers will benefit from a car that seamlessly integrates into their digital lives.”
Google also wants to make it easier for developers to comply with driver-distraction guidelines and restrictions, and will be providing media app templates for the 2’s Android Automotive OS. Meanwhile, Polestar is releasing a new version of its system emulator for the Android Studio development platform, which now boasts full implementation of embedded Google apps and services.
The following apps are scheduled to be available in the Polestar 2: Castbox and Pocket Casts (podcast apps), Libby (library app), iHeartRadio, Swedish Radio Play and NRK Radio (radio apps), Bauer Media Auto’s Magic Radio and Radioplayer apps, plus Spotify (music and podcasts). The latter is arguably the crown jewel here.
“At Spotify, we want to make listening to your favourite music and podcasts easily accessible – whether that’s at home, on the go, or in the car,” says the company’s VP of Product, Sten Garmark. “We’re looking forward to introducing our innovative integration with the new Polestar 2 infotainment system on Google’s Android Automotive platform. This collaboration creates a seamless, high-quality listening experience for our users on the road.”
The Polestar 2 packs 408 HP and 487 lb-ft (660 Nm) of torque and a 78 kWh battery pack for a total range of 275 miles (443 km). Prices in the U.S. kick off from $59,900.
