Honda adds built-in Google apps to Accord 2023 | Daily driving | Consumer Guide® The Daily Drive

newsofmax12/20/2022

2 2 minutes read

Honda adds built-in Google apps to Accord 2023 | Daily driving | Consumer Guide® The Daily Drive

Google built-in apps

When it goes on sale in January, the 2023 Honda Accord will become the latest vehicle to offer Google’s embedded apps. “Built-in” takes many of the functions of Android Auto, including Google Assistant, Maps, and even the Play Store, and allows drivers to access them without a connected smartphone.

Honda Accord 2023

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The system is based on an embedded mobile data connection in the vehicle. With it, users can perform a variety of commands with the “Hello Google” trigger phrase, including calling and texting, adjusting the climate control system, and setting destinations using Maps. The Play Store will offer third-party apps like Spotify that can also be controlled with voice prompts.

At launch, Google Built-in will be exclusive to the top-spec Touring trim level of the 2023 Accord. A Honda spokesperson said the company plans to expand its offering of future models but It is not clear what models they are. If we had to guess, the upcoming Prologue EV would be an ideal candidate. The system also cannot be retrofitted to other/older models.

Since the system relies on a mobile data connection, a subscription fee will be charged for continued access after the free trial after purchase. As of this writing, Honda has yet to finalize these details. However, we expect the company to follow General Motors’ example with three years of service included followed by a assessed monthly or yearly fee.

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CG says:

Google Built-in is an impressive piece of technology because it doesn’t require users to connect their phones to perform most of the tasks that might require it. The biggest problem will be convincing buyers to keep paying for the service after the free trial period expires since they can just connect their phone and use Android Auto or the more traditional Apple CarPlay. Hopefully Honda will offer a reasonably priced data plan with a discount if owners want to pay a year up front.

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