From Concept to Road: Designing the Android for Cars App Ecosystem
for Android Auto & android automotive OS (Google)
The Android for Cars App Library is an SDK that lets developers and car manufacturers integrate applications into car screens, offering frameworks that meet driver distraction standards while accommodating various screen sizes and input methods.
Artifacts published: Design Guidelines and the Android Developer site.
Chargepoint app on Android Auto
my role: UX lead (2 years)
As the UX lead, I spearheaded design efforts announced at Google I/O 2022, collaborating with cross-functional teams to create a multi-year product strategy. I oversaw a diverse group of designers and researchers while serving as the main contact for developers and car manufacturers, validating strategies and gathering insights for continuous improvement.
establishing strategy
Faced with ambiguity, we first identified app developers' needs and the differences in driver experiences across the globe. Through design exercises, I helped the team generate numerous features and visualized user flows, which helped us prioritize the MVP experience. I engaged with early access partners which provided valuable feedback on scope and end user experience.
building the mvP
We emphasized flexibility in the design framework to accommodate global driving conditions and user behaviors. I championed a system/foundation that balanced developer freedom with driver safety, collaborating with researchers and engineers to create a driver-distraction framework. Feedback led us to gradually expand the MVP, enabling more app categories.
Design and iteration
Understanding the technical complexities was vital for the design process and product success. I worked closely with engineers, employing sprints, collaborative prototyping, and user testing in vehicles. Regular engagement with early access partners allowed us to iterate confidently.
A section from developer guidance documentation explaining how to architecture apps with driver safety in mind
Prototype for a sample browse flow to figure out motion design details
beyond the mvp
Phase 2 blog post - enabling Android Automotive OS.
I advocated for unified app design across the two Auto platforms, Android Auto and Android Automotive OS, enhancing efficiency for developers and fostering a growing ecosystem. In the second phase of the project, we expanded the library to Android Automotive OS. The main challenge was addressing automotive manufacturer (OEM) customization needs while maintaining a consistent app structure for developers and end-users. I led the team to get buy-in for a strategy focusing on the UI layer customization while leaving the app user experience intact.
Different in-car design systems rendering the same app view with customized UI elements
impact
Apps developed by a global set of developers
The SDK launch resulted in:
- Over 400 apps published within months.
- Increased usage in markets like Korea and Brazil.
- Positive developer feedback, with rapid app builds.
- A scalable design strategy facilitated quick launches of additional app categories such as the IoT category.
lessons learned 🤔
Building something new presents unique challenges, especially with team dynamics and stakeholder alignment. I learned the importance of a cohesive, diverse team, whose resilience was crucial to our success.
