One of the biggest advantages of Android Auto is the number of compatible applications that allow you to have a complete and personalized experience. However, this fact has a lot of room for improvement: there are alternative platforms to find more applications because They do not have Google certification.

So how does Google choose which apps are good for Android Auto and which aren’t? The Mountain View-based company’s criteria are a bit vague, and that’s led to controversy by attacking it head-on Using its dominant position against competitionLaila Medina, chief prosecutor of the European Court of Justice, also thinks so.

Google chooses which apps get into Android Auto. Your criteria are not transparent

We have to go back to 2021, when Google was fined 102 million euros in Italy for its anti-competitive practices. More specifically, Deny Android Auto access to JuicePassApplication of electricity distributor Enel X (Endesa X in Spain).

This application is used to charge electric vehicles by providing a map with charging points and a subscription system. Google says no to Juicepass’s entry into Android AutoThose who subscribed to this service inevitably had to turn to their mobile phone, not their car’s infotainment system, to use it.

After the million-dollar fine, Google appealed to the Italian courts and then the case reached the European Court. The court is expected to decide in a few months. According to Laila Medina, this denial means: Breaching EU competition rules. It is important to note that JuicePass’ actions are provided by Google’s own Maps. Please note that this is the private opinion of an expert lawyer and is not binding on TE’s final decision.

What does Google say about all this? The issue wasn’t to block a competitor, the real reason was security and the lack of a specific template for this type of app, although it was being worked on. There are actually other apps similar to JuicePass that are compatible with Android Auto, so we’ll have to see if Google will eventually open the doors to JuicePass or provide more information about their decision.

via | Spanish

Cover | By ALEXANDRE LALLEMAND on Unsplash with own photo montage

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