Bauer Media brings its radio apps to Android-powered car infotainment systems


Bauer Media’s radio apps will be available through Google Play in the car infotainment systems of the Polestar 2 and Volvo XC40 later this year.

Bauer Media’s apps will be accessible on vehicle dashboards for owners of the cars in the UK, Sweden, and Norway, meaning drivers and passengers can listen to radio stations and audio on-demand from brands such as Magic Radio, RadioPlay, Kiss, and Absolute Radio.

“Connected devices provide new ways for our listeners to access the full range of high-quality content from the radio stations they love and we are constantly innovating our products to meet their evolving expectations,” said Richard Dawkins, COO of Bauer Media Audio. “Audio is intrinsic to the in-car experience and we are excited to be partnering with Google within this exciting future-looking environment.”

The Polestar 2 and Volvo XC40 will be the first cars to feature an infotainment system powered by Android with Google Assistant, Maps, and Play all built-in. This will enable drivers and passengers to enjoy radio, podcasts, audiobooks, and music more easily.

“This is the first step in transforming our perception, moving away from the car as only being a mode of transportation and the car as an extension of your digital life,” said Anya Ernest, Business Design at Polestar. “If we can increase the usage and the context of the car then this can help in our long-term goal in creating a more sustainable future.”