One of the great advantages of Android Auto is the number of compatible applications, which allows for a complete and personalized experience. However, this reality can still be improved: there are alternative platforms to find more applications because They don’t have Google certification.
But how does Google choose which apps are suitable for Android Auto and which are not? The Mountain View-based company’s criteria are somewhat opaque, and it’s sparking controversy by directly attacking against competition by using its dominant positionThis is what Laila Medina, Attorney General at the Court of Justice of the European Union, thinks.
Google chooses which apps to integrate into Android Auto. Your criteria are opaque
We have to go back to 2021, when Google was fined $102 million in Italy for its anti-competitive practices. More specifically, for deny Android Auto access to JuicePassthe application of the electricity distributor Enel X (in Europe, Endesa X).
This application allows you to recharge electric vehicles, providing a map with charging points and a subscription system. With the Google’s no to Juicepass coming to Android AutoThose who had a subscription to the service inevitably had to use their mobile phone to use it, not their car’s infotainment system.
After the million dollar fine, Google appealed to the Italian courts and the case was then brought before the European Court, which is expected to issue its decision in a few months. According to Laila Medina, this denial implies violate EU competition rules. It should be remembered that what JuicePass does is offered by Google’s own Maps. Please note that this is a private opinion of a specialist lawyer and is not binding on the final decision of the TE.
What does Google say about all this? That it was not about bothering a competitor, but the real reason is security, as well as the lack of a specific model for this type of applications, although it is working on it. In fact, there are already other applications similar to JuicePass compatible with Android Auto, so it will be necessary to see if Google should finally open the doors to JuicePass or provide more information about its decisions.
By | The Spanish
Cover | Montage with Photo by ALEXANDRE LALLEMAND on Unsplash and his own photo
In Xataka Android | Nine Android Auto apps that aren’t on Google Play and can’t be missing in your car
