Next-Gen Renault Duster, Nissan Kicks, Mitsubishi Pajero Could Get Android Multimedia System

Beginning 2021, new Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi cars will have infotainment systems based on Google’s popular Android operating system. This means that these new-age infotainment units will be made to work with smartphones, a majority of which currently run on Android. This will also allow the manufacturers to send over-the-air updates to their respective cars, making them more relevant in a world which is quickly becoming more digital. Apple users will also be able to use the system, though the usability may not be as much as those using an Android phone.

While the Android operating system will form the base of the infotainment system, each manufacturer can choose their own skin over it to make their system feel unique. Google’s sought-after features like Maps will be offered as standard, negating the need to connect the system with a smartphone altogether. Google’s Play Store will also be available as standard, allowing users to install apps made for their cars on the go. This could open up the possibilities for entertainment, communication, diagnostics and even e-retail.

The addition of the new infotainment system was announced along with Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi’s plan to launch 12 zero-emission all-electric vehicles beginning 2022. These cars will heavily rely on the new infotainment system to gather data about the vehicle, perform over-the-air updates for any electronic parts on the car, help the cars become autonomous-ready and also diagnose problems on the go.