Comment by MBCook
9 hours ago
Android Automotive is the infotainment system’s OS and runs fully without a phone.
Android Auto is the Google equivalent of CarPlay and runs on your phone.
It’s easy to confuse. Like watching Apple TV on your Apple TV in Apple’s TV app.
So I can use android auto on an android automotive head unit - got it but also this seems needlessly confusing naming structure. Apple TV comparison is apt lol
They are intended for different market segments. The consumers use Android Auto to project their phones. The headunit manufacturers build devices to run Android Automotive with custom skins. It's like knowing whether a smartphone running Chrome is using Blink or Webkit. The user probably doesn't know or care, they'll use it the same way regardless.
It makes perfect sense in isolation. It’s a good name.
Unfortunately Android Auto already existed. So it’s confusing.
Did they hire their branding person from Microsoft? And how about AppFunctions (Google) and AppIntents (Apple)?
How would you name them?
Android Connect instead of Android Auto, and any word other than recycling the android app communication nomenclature "Intent." But hey I'm no branding genius so let's workshop this to close the loop.