Volvo launched this week the most extensive over-the-air software update ever in its history. The Swedish manufacturer is making a new user experience called Volvo Car UX available to approximately 2.5 million cars in 85 countries. The update is free for models produced from 2020 onwards with Google built-in and brings a radical graphic reorganization of the central screen based on the Android Automotive operating system and integrated Google services. The goal is to simplify and make interaction with the car more immediate.
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Volvo launches a massive OTA software update
Thanks to a more intuitive layout, the driver will be able to access the main functions with fewer touches. Translated: it reduces distractions and speeds up daily operations such as navigation or multimedia control. The new interface unifies and makes the most used apps and controls, such as maps, media, and phone, more visible directly on the home screen, allowing, for example, to change tracks without leaving Google Maps. A contextual bar has also been introduced that adapts the information displayed to the driving situation and shows recent apps. At low speeds, the external camera icon automatically appears to facilitate maneuvers in tight spaces.
Extensive improvements
For owners of plug-in hybrid vehicles, access to driving modes has also been simplified. The “Drive Mode” function on the home screen allows switching to Pure mode or other options with a single touch, facilitating the use of electric drive. The update is part of the Swedish manufacturer’s strategy aimed at constantly improving its cars through periodic software releases and also prepares the cars for future conversational artificial intelligence features via Google Gemini, expected in late spring on compatible cars. Volvo also offers customers who do not have Pilot Assist the possibility to purchase and download the feature later.
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