Volkswagen will support Android Automotive during the life cycle of the car – 15 years

Android Automotive continues to be the choice of more and more automakers. Google’s operating system is already chosen by General Motors, Polestar, Volvo, Honda, and BMW and Volkswagen Group will soon join them.

One of the important issues accompanying the development of Android Automotive is the issue of operating system support. It can receive OTA updates just like smartphones. However, the life expectancy of a car is significantly longer than that of a smartphone (especially Android devices), so how long can we expect updates to car infotainment systems?

This question was answered by Dirk Hilgenberg, CEO of CARIAD, the software division of the Volkswagen Group. He noted that support throughout the vehicle’s life cycle is extremely important. The duration of the cycle is estimated at 15 years, plus there is an option for brands that want to extend support for a longer period.

Of course, only time will tell whether such promises from automakers will come true. There are no guarantees that such a business model will bring enough profit. Especially if companies count on selling subscriptions that will activate new functions in cars. There are also issues regarding car support on the secondary market.