Chevy confirms auto Android update

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Chevrolet says it will offer Android Auto compatibility via software update to U.S. consumers who buy select 2016 model year vehicles equipped with an eight-inch MyLink system.

Available for Silverado and Silverado HD, the update will be available starting in March 2016 exclusively through Chevrolet dealers.

Earlier this year, Chevrolet announced it will offer Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility in more 2016 models than any automotive brand. 

“Thanks to the hard work and determination of our engineering team, Chevrolet consumers who use Android phones will not have to compromise when choosing which MyLink system meets their needs – both the seven-inch and eight-inch systems will offer Android Auto capability,” said Alan Batey, president GM North America and Global Chevrolet. “We are working with our dealers to make the software update as quick and easy as possible to minimize any inconvenience to our owners.”

Chevrolet was the first brand to introduce Siri Eyes Free functionality and the first car company to offer availableOnStar 4G LTE connectivity across a range of cars, trucks and crossovers in the U.S. and Canada. In less than one year, Chevrolet has connected more than a half-million customers to high-speed 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

Using either application is simple in a compatible 2016 Chevrolet. A “Projection” icon on the MyLink screen is visible when a phone is not connected, then changes to indicate either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (whichever is applicable) when a compatible phone is connected via USB. Android Auto requires a phone running the Android Lollipop 5.0 operating system or higher, while Apple CarPlay requires an iPhone 5 or later. The user interfaces themselves are designed and developed by Apple (for Apple CarPlay) and Google (for Android Auto).

Compatible apps need to be downloaded to a phone before using. Apple and Google’s privacy statements and terms of use apply. Data plan rates will also apply.