The topic we had already encountered in some threads, but now it will be acutely quoted again: Volvo announced today that its next-generation Sensus infotainment system, which will run on Android, will have the Google Assistant, Google Maps and the Google Play Store embedded within it. Adding Google Maps has some obvious benefits for drivers while the Google Assistant will give users voice control over in-car functions like air conditioning as well as music and messaging. “Bringing Google service s into Volvo cars will accelerator innovation in connectivity and boost our development in applications and connected services,” Henrik Green, Volvo senior VP of research and development, said in a statement. “Soon, Volvo drivers will have direct access to thousands of in-car apps that make daily life easier and the connected in-car experience more enjoyable.” Google and Volvo announced last year that they were teaming up to build Android into future cars. Such a set up will allow drivers to us e their infotainment system independently of their smartphones since the system itself will operate on Android. Volvo says that the first Android-based system will launch in a couple of years. Quote: “plus thousands of additional apps are available through the Google Play Store that is optimized and adapted for Android-based car infotainment systems.”