Android Automotive Now Available On KTM Motorcycles, Brings Advanced Features And Offline Navigation

Illustration of Android Automotive, installed on a KTM motorcycle (photo: x @ferraru)

JAKARTA Android Automotive, the operating system normally used in cars, is now starting to apply to motorcycles. KTM, a leading motorcycle manufacturer, has just announced that the Android Automotive operating system is now present on the latest touch screen dashboard embedded in some of their motorcycle models. This move makes KTM one of the pioneers in presenting this advanced technology to two-wheeled vehicles.

With the implementation of Android Automotive, KTM offers a set of advanced features that were previously only found in four-wheeled vehicles. These new features include offline navigation that is very useful for motorists, various applications that can be accessed directly from the dashboard, as well as the ability to perform over-the-air (OTA) software updates. This update allows users to always get the latest version of the software without having to visit the workshop or manually install it.

This operating system is run by an upgraded CCU3.0 connectivity unit, with an internal storage capacity of 32 GB and 3 GB RAM. This connectivity unit also supports various modern technologies such as IoT connectivity via eSIM, GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi antennas, which make it easier for motorists to stay connected even though they are on the road.

Android Automotive Excess Compared To Android Auto

Prior to this, several motorcycles had supported Android Auto, which projects the appearance of user smartphones to dashboard motorcycles. However, Android Automotive offers a superior experience as this operating system operates directly on devices without requiring smartphones as intermediaries.

This makes users need not worry about connection problems that sometimes occur on Android Auto, which can harm motorists if they are forced to solve problems while driving.

The use of Android Automotive on KTM motorcycles is believed to increase the comfort and safety of driving, especially with easy access to navigation features and applications without connection interruptions.

Although Android Automotive provides many advantages, this version applied on KTM motorcycles does not seem to fully support Google's services, such as the Play Store or other Google apps.

Google and its partners often refer to Android Automotive as a focused platform for "cars with Google built-in", so for motorcycles there may be some limitations in these services.

This new Android Automotive-based dashboard will be present in two layout options, namely vertical and horizontal, to adjust the needs of motorists. KTM also confirmed that this dashboard will begin to be available on some of their premium motorcycle models, providing a more connected and efficient driving experience.

With this new technology, KTM once again proves its position as the leader of innovation in the motorcycle industry, as well as paving the way for the future of more sophisticated and integrated smart motorcycles.