Roewe 350 touted as the world's first Android-powered automobile
There's another gadget to add to the ever-growing and busy list of Google Android-based devices. But this one is a bit bigger than a handheld.
About to make its official launch at the Beijing Auto Show next month, the Roewe 350 hosts a system that will keep drivers and passengers connected to the web while on the open road.
The Roewe 350 boasts a DVD and GPS system running on the most recent OS release: Android 2.1. Some of the amenities include direct web access and real-time traffic reports. (Can't you also hear those already on the radio?)
The system also provides access to chat applications, which should really be a passenger-only activity while the vehicle is in motion. While it seems nice to have, it seems like it could be too tempting to some careless and reckless drivers.
It's not clear how the car will actually be connected to the Internet, either via 3G or installing a WWAN card.
Cars are certainly getting the futuristic and technological makeover treatment this year, starting with the MyFord Touch at CES 2010 and then the Mini Connected system. It was only a matter of time before the Android OS was used for bigger toys, right?
[Image via China Car Times]