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Hyundai's second generation Blue Link tech runs custom Android, keeps you connected with Verizon
When Hyundai's latest Genesis sedan launches later this Spring, it'll have the latest version of Hyundai's Blue Link tech: voice navigation, media management and remote tech. That means unlocking your car remotely, navigating to both specific locations and general search terms (think: flowers, sushi, etc.), and a whole mess of other "smart" functionality. Unlike the first-gen Blue Link currently available, all of that functionality is being brought to your new Genesis with a cell signal provided by Verizon. Hyundai was part of the big Google news earlier today, and Blue Link's second-gen is another piece in that puzzle. Consider it the latest in a series of cross-company explorations into how best to implement Android in cars -- a Hyundai rep told us it's also exploring iOS for cars, but won't have more to share until some point "later this year." In the brief time we spent with Blue Link 2, we were impressed! It picked up on voice commands without a hitch, and was able to wirelessly connect to Google Places from within the confines of a Las Vegas hotel conference room. Sadly, navigation costs $100 annually, and it's another $100 annually for remote services. Head past the break for a look at Blue Link 2 in action, and find out if it's the Android you're looking for. Richard Lai contributed to this report.
Google to bring Android to cars with a little help from Audi, GM, Hyundai, Honda and NVIDIA
Already with more than one billion activations on mobile and media devices, Google's Android is set to make an impact on another major industry: automobiles. Following rumors that the search giant was working with Audi to embed its open-source OS inside its cars, the company confirmed today it has teamed up with five automotive and technology companies (with more expected in the future) to form the Open Automotive Alliance. Alongside Audi, Google will be joined by General Motors, Hyundai, Honda and chip-maker NVIDIA, which will all work to bring Android to cars starting this year. The coalition aims to create a common platform that will drive innovation and in turn make cars "safer and more intuitive for everyone." With Apple and Nokia already pushing hard to bring their own software to cars -- Apple already counts Honda, GM and Hyundai as Siri Eyes Free partners -- 2014 could be a big year for connected cars.