Polestar EVs get Prime Video streaming while digital car key expands to Hyundai Group thanks to Android Auto and Google built-in feature dump update

Some EV makers, like Tesla and Rivian, have opted to develop their own in-car software. This strategy allows these manufacturers to tailor the in-car experience, and some even have features not found on Google's alternatives, but many consumers find that systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are superior alternatives. The latest update to both Google built-in and Android Auto elevate the functionality of the in-car infotainment beyond just the basic calls, music, and navigation.

Cars with Android Auto can now join conference calls on-the-go with both Zoom and WebEx by Cisco. Meeting functionality is restricted to audio-only, for obvious reasons, but it's a helpful tool that could help make the commute more productive.

Further, certain Polestar, Volvo, and Renault vehicles with Google built-in (AKA Google Automotive Services), often paired with the Android Automotive OS, can now stream video from Amazon's Prime Video streaming service. This is handy for charging stops in EVs, and joins other streaming apps, like YouTube, on the Play Store. For obvious reasons, streaming is limited to when the cars are stationary.

Joining a handful of Polestar vehicles, other vehicles with Google built-in will soon also be able to download the Vivaldi browser and The Weather Channel apps to enable better route planning and in-car convenience. Again, this is handy in electric vehicles, where charging stops can easily exceed 30 minutes.

Lastly, Google is also rolling out its digital car key functionality in new markets. While it was previously only available in certain European countries, digital car key will now also make it to specific Hyundai, Genesis, and Kia cars in the US, Canada, and Korea. For now, this is also limited to certain compatible Samsung and Pixel devices. Support will likely expand as the technology matures, though.

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