Google Inc. today announced a new deal with Audi and Volvo Group that will see Android delivered to the two automakers’ cars.

This will be a full version that operates various car functions, in contrast to Android Auto, Google’s current cut-down version of Android that primarily acts as an information service. The software, which will be demonstrated at the Google I/O developer conference starting Wednesday, will host popular applications such as Google Maps and Spotify. It also will be able to operate in-car functions such as seat positioning and temperature.

As a bonus, Google Assistant, Google’s smart assistant app will not only allow for car owners to use voice to adjust car controls but will also tap into the app’s other features, such as its ability to control Internet of Things devices. For example, someone driving home could ask Google Assistant to open the garage and turn the lights on.

Perhaps most importantly, unlike Android Auto before it, the new versions of Android coming to Audi and Volvo cars will not require an Android phone to be connected to them to operate, because the platform is a fully baked version of Android. Presumably, for in-car connectivity, mobile Internet support would be required. It’s not clear from reports whether there’s support for mobile data in the car or a tether to a mobile device would be required.

“We are making an important strategic step with the Google partnership,” Volvo Senior Vice President for Research and Development Henrik Green said in a statement. “Google’s platform and services will enhance the user experience by enabling more personalization possibilities, while Android will offer increased flexibility from a development perspective.”

Google will offer live demonstrations of the operating system running in the Audi Q8 and Volvo V90 SUVs at I/O, according to Bloomberg, which added that both companies expect the system to make its way across their entire range of vehicles over the next few years.

Photo: Google