Google has unveiled a new Dashcam App designed for vehicles running Android Automotive OS (AAOS), aiming to enhance safety and security by utilizing built-in cameras for video recording.
However, unlike typical Android apps, this dashcam feature won’t be available for direct download from the Play Store. Instead, car manufacturers will need to integrate it directly into their vehicles’ systems.
According to Google’s documentation, the Dashcam app is a “production-ready and customizable dashcam solution” designed to work with AAOS.
It enables vehicles to record video using their built-in cameras, providing drivers with footage that can be useful for accident documentation, security, and road safety monitoring.
The app taps into camera hardware using two standard APIs:
- EVS (Extended View System): Commonly used in modern vehicles to handle multiple camera feeds.
- Camera2 API: A widely used Android API that gives apps greater control over camera functions.
Since the app requires system-level permissions, it must be pre-installed by car manufacturers rather than being downloaded by users.
This means that while the feature is ready, its availability will depend on whether automakers choose to integrate it into their vehicles.
Many vehicles running Android Automotive OS lack a native dashcam feature, leaving drivers to rely on third-party dashcams or smartphone apps. Google’s solution could encourage automakers to adopt a standardized, built-in dashcam system, reducing the need for external devices.
Since the app is customizable, manufacturers can either deploy it as is or modify it to match their brand’s UI and safety features. This flexibility makes it easier for car brands to integrate the technology without significant development effort.
Limitations and availability
While the Google Dashcam app sounds promising, users cannot install it themselves. It’s up to automakers to decide whether to include it in their vehicles. This means its adoption may vary depending on car brands and models.
For now, there’s no word on which car manufacturers will adopt the feature or when it will roll out to existing Android Automotive-powered cars. However, its presence in Google’s official documentation suggests it’s ready for deployment.
Google’s new Dashcam app for Android Automotive OS has the potential to improve in-car safety by providing a built-in, reliable recording system. If widely adopted, this could make external dashcams obsolete for many drivers.
