Dive Brief:
- Google announced Monday morning the formation of the "Open Automotive Alliance" to help build Android mobile technology into the "connected car."
- Car makers that have joined the OAA so far include Audi, GM and Hyundai, as well as computer graphics company NVIDIA.
- Google services like Gmail, maps and more will also be made available in OAA cars, meaning that Google ads will likely follow.
Dive Insight:
Android's share of the mobile market may put them at an advantage over Apple or Microsoft if car buyers wish to own the mobile device that matches up with their connected cars, but the real advantage may be the addition of popular Google features. For advertisers, this could be a huge opportunity to reach drivers where they spend much of their time. Whoever pulls in the most ad dollars will likely be the real winner of the connected car race.
