What Is Google built-in?

This infotainment option might be built into your next new car.

David Gluckman | 

Sep 24, 2025 | 3 min read

Lincoln

Google's latest automotive product is called Google built-in, which puts familiar apps on the infotainment home screens of select vehicles without the need for a phone. It follows Android Auto smartphone mirroring, which debuted on the 2015 Hyundai Sonata, and the Android Automotive operating system, which was introduced on the 2021 Polestar 2.

Android Auto, Android Automotive, and Google built-in

Android Automotive isn't to be confused with Android Auto. Android Auto is a phone-based screen-mirroring technology that allows users to pull up select apps on the in-vehicle infotainment display. It's the Google version of Apple CarPlay.

Android Automotive is the operating system (OS) powering the vehicle's infotainment, and does not require a connected smartphone to work. Google built-in is a suite of applications that said OS runs. Think about a computer: You might have the Windows operating system, but you can still use the Microsoft Office suite of programs.

A vehicle must run Android Automotive to add Google built-in, while Google built-in is not necessarily a part of all Android Automotive implementations.

Like Android Auto, but With More Features

The main functions Google built-in adds are Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google Play store. Some built-in features are similar to what you'll find if you connect an Android phone to a car using Android Auto. Google Maps, for instance, should look familiar. Google's other navigation app, Waze, is also available as a download through Google Play.

There are a few things that Google built-in offers and Android Auto does not. A recent update brought the ability to watch video or browse the web via the infotainment screen when parked. Manufacturers can choose to include the YouTube app for that purpose. And there are mini games, called GameSnacks, that vehicle owners can install and play when it's safe to do so.

The Google Assistant also has more power with Google built-in, and allows drivers to adjust settings such as cabin temperature with voice commands. In vehicles such as the Chevrolet Blazer EV and the Honda Prologue, drivers can summon the Assistant via a button on the steering wheel, using the infotainment screen, or simply saying "Hey, Google."

Using Google built-in May Come With Costs

One advantage of Google built-in compared with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay is that the user doesn't have to connect a phone.

While a Google account is not required to access every feature, you'll need one to download apps, and the technology promises a more personalized experience if you're logged in. Multiple Google accounts can be associated with a vehicle, and to prevent other drivers from using your profile, you can set a PIN.

Since most of these features require a data connection, manufacturers generally require customers to pay them or an associated carrier for a data plan to enable all of Google built-in's connected functions. But it's possible to use Wi-Fi or a mobile hot spot to access many features.

Many Manufacturers Offer Google built-in

Automakers currently offering Google built-in include Polestar, Volvo, General Motors (parent company of, among others, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC), Honda, and Nissan.

So whether you're looking for a compact crossover such as the Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V, or family-friendly people movers such as the Chevrolet Suburban, Google built-in is available across a wide range of makes and models. Luxury vehicles are no exception, and buyers looking for the tech can find it on the Cadillac Lyriq, Lincoln Navigator, and Volvo XC90.

Notably, General Motors recently announced that all of its future Ultium-based electric vehicles will use Android Automotive — but will not offer Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

Since Google built-in, and the underlying Android Automotive OS, works at the vehicle level, it isn't available from the aftermarket. If you want to use it, the car must have Google built-in — you guessed it — built in from the factory.

David Gluckman

David has years of experience as a writer and editor for print and digital automotive publications, including Car and Driver and Road & Track. He can parallel-park a school bus, has a spreadsheet listing every vehicle he's ever tested, and once drove a Lincoln Town Car 63 mph in reverse. When not searching for the perfect used car, he can be found sampling the latest gimmicky foodstuffs that America has to offer.