Subaru provides Android Automotive, Snapdragon chip to Outback

Many automakers are deciding whether or not to combine platforms like Android Auto or Apple CarPlay into their automobiles, or to construct their very own in-house software program. Basic Motors, for instance, is about to ditch Android Auto and CarPlay on its future automobiles. Then, there’s Tesla, the corporate that constructed a customized infotainment system however is now reportedly contemplating including CarPlay anyway. One other wrinkle is Android Automotive, the Google working system that runs on automobiles independently of a linked smartphone. Subaru confirmed its next-generation infotainment system will use Android Automotive, supporting Android Auto and CarPlay, and it simply shared key particulars and specs.

Subaru’s new infotainment system will function entry to Google companies and not using a linked smartphone, Subaru mentioned in a press launch this week (by way of 9to5Google). The automaker doesn’t point out Android Automotive by identify, however it informed Vehicles.com in August that the Google working system would certainly energy the 2026 Outback. Android Automotive will grant 2026 Subaru Outback homeowners the flexibility to regulate media and choose apps with their voice utilizing Google Assistant.

The 2026 Outback can also be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Automotive processor, which works in tandem with Android Automotive to ship the Google-infused expertise. Subaru doubled the quantity of reminiscence and storage accessible to its infotainment system, as much as 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage. The corporate says map swipes are as much as 3 times sooner, audio display screen transitions are as much as six occasions sooner, and basic scrolling is as much as twice as quick.

On the {hardware} facet, drivers can view a 12.1-inch show with an Adreno GPU rendering graphics. It helps Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and surprisingly, a Spectra ISP that exhibits reside digicam feeds in HDR with improved low-light efficiency.

Android Automotive will deal with in-car controls for the 2026 Outback, together with cabin and seating local weather management and drive modes. Customers can create personalised profiles to avoid wasting their preferences and normal places. Subaru additionally says the Android Automotive expertise permits for computerized updates “that assist maintain software program present.”

Subaru’s 2026 Outback will use Android Automotive for the built-in infotainment system, and it’ll work and not using a smartphone current for processing. Nonetheless, the performance doesn’t come on the expense of versatility. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay help remains to be accessible wirelessly, so drivers can select the in-car expertise they like.

Subaru calls this a “next-generation infotainment package deal,” hinting that Android Automotive will broaden to the remainder of the automaker’s lineup sooner or later. As firms like GM and Rivian double-down on locking down their automobile infotainment techniques, Subaru’s adoption of Android Automotive is sweet information for Android customers.