Android is known for its flexibility. From smartphones to tablets, from military ops applications to microwaves, Android is making its rounds. Now the little green robot-bearing OS can add something else to it’s increasing portfolio, cars.
The Roewe 350 is the world’s first Android automobile. It will make its debut at Beijing’s Auto Show next month, and it’s already been given the OK to start production. The Roewe 350 will be available starting April 23rd, and will cost between 70,000 to 130,000 yuan, which is about $10,250 to $19,000. Not much of a high price when you’ve got a lot of high-tech inside.
Of course, the Roewe 350 will come equipped with Google’s turn-by-turn directions application, as the car is running Android 2.1. Users can take advantage of the GPS, live traffic views, getting you from point A to point B with ease. But it doesn’t stop there. Users will also be able to surf the web, and have the ability to engage in online chatting. No client for the service has been revealed, but in due time, more details should emerge. It’s also not known whether one can install applications with the OS. I wouldn’t be completely surprised if the option was not available. The last thing you need is to play Raging Thunder while your driving. But it would be nice if certain applications, like Pandora were bundled in if the Market will not be available.
When more details emerge from this baby, we’ll be sure to let the world know. Right now, you can revel in the thought of the Android equipped car. Love it or hate it, Android is here for good, and it’s just going to begin to creep into your life more, and more. What’s most exciting to me is what the Roewe 350 may be able to do when/if it gets rooted. Now there’s a thought.
[Via: Mashable Image: China Car TImes]