Building on our vehicle intelligence technology goals and recent connectivity launches, General Motors Middle East has announced the introduction of infotainment systems with Google built-in. These new features enhance the overall customer experience and make it easier than ever for customers to bring their digital lives into future connected vehicles.
GM’s research shows that many customers prefer an embedded technology experience in the vehicle, and increasingly expect seamless integration between the technology in their hands and the technology at the wheel. Listening to customer feedback, GM has partnered with Google to bring new options for voice assistance, embedded navigation, and in-vehicle applications starting with MY 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban as well as MY 2022 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, live since December 2021 in the region. Google built-in services will be standard on trims LT and above, with broad deployment across all GM vehicle brands equipped with the OnStar module system. Customers in UAE and Kuwait are able to utilize Google built-in via their Wi-Fi plans, while KSA and Bahrain customers can connect through their personal mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
General Motors’ future infotainment systems will continue to be driven by Android, allowing the company to offer familiar and upgraded Google experiences to the vehicle. Among the features that customers can anticipate are the following:
•Voice Assistant: Communicate with Google to receive hands-free assistance in the automobile. Easily contact or text a friend, make reminders, and even adjust the vehicle’s temperature. Additionally, drivers can choose the best route to their next location or seek up nearby attractions. Using your preferred media apps, skipping to the next track or rewinding a podcast is simple. To begin, simply say “Ok Google” or tap the steering wheel’s push-to-talk button.
•In the future, drivers will be able to interact with their vehicle merely by speaking, which might include renewing their OnStar or Connected Services contracts, checking their tyre pressure, or scheduling servicing.
•Embedded Navigation: Google Maps is constantly updated in the vehicle and assists drivers with navigation by providing real-time traffic information, automatic rerouting, and lane guiding. Without using a phone, drivers may use Google Assistant to navigate home, report their estimated arrival time, discover the nearest petrol station, or inquire about the hours of their favourite coffee shop.
•In-Vehicle Applications: Google Play enables drivers to discover and download their favourite apps and services optimised for in-vehicle use. Drivers can listen to the same albums, podcasts, and audiobooks in the vehicle as they do at home and use communication apps to keep connected with their most critical connections. Additionally, rearrange the apps on the infotainment system’s screen to create a layout that is uniquely yours.
The motorist must always maintain vigilance while utilising Google apps and services. Google’s built-in technology is available in connected nations and requires either a Connected Services in-vehicle data trial or a Wi-Fi Data plan (in markets where OnStar Connected Services and Wi-Fi have been offered), or customers can connect via their personal mobile data hotspot.
