MyHyundai to bring brand-specific features to Android Auto

Hyundai just announced MyHyundai, an app that will exist within the Android Auto environment, meaning it's meant to be used in your car, with your Android smartphone plugged into a Hyundai equipped with Google's smartphone connectivity system. It performs functions similar to the Blue Link smartphone app, but since it's on your car's screen, it cuts distraction by keeping the phone tucked away during operation.

While it won't preheat your interior (you're already in the car, why would you want that?), there's plenty it will let you do through your infotainment touchscreen. This includes calling roadside assistance, locating nearby service centers, activating valet mode's geofence alerts and providing a monthly vehicle report. It will also track your drive and let you know how good your driving is.

Instead of being a complement to a more traditional vehicle-monitoring smartphone app, it's more of an analogue that removes the step of having to pull out your phone. If you can do it all using a screen that's close to the windshield, it could do wonders to help curb distracted driving. The app is only a prototype for now, but Hyundai hopes to have it released by the end of the calendar year.