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Google and Volvo Deepen Android Partnership, Bringing Faster AI Features to Cars

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Volvo Cars and Google have announced a significant expansion of their long-standing partnership, with the Swedish automaker now becoming the lead development partner for Android Automotive OS, marking a major leap in bringing advanced digital features and AI to vehicles faster than industry competitors.

Volvo’s head of global software engineering, Alwin Bakkenes, told Reuters that this collaboration will give Volvo customers early access to new Android versions, often years ahead of other carmakers. “This really gives us an edge in building fantastic customer experiences,” he said.

While most automakers lag by two Android versions compared to mobile devices, Volvo is now bridging that gap. The company currently runs Android 13 in its vehicles, but at Google’s annual I/O developer conference this week, the companies showcased Volvo’s flagship EX90 electric SUV operating on Android 15, the latest version of Google’s mobile OS. This version will start rolling out in production vehicles later this year.

The enhanced partnership also gives Google engineers access to real-world driving data by testing software in Volvo cars, accelerating development cycles and improving in-car digital experiences.

One of the biggest highlights from the I/O event was the integration of Google’s Gemini AI model into Volvo cars. The system enables drivers to interact with their vehicle more naturally and intuitively. For example, Gemini can search a user’s emails or messages for a destination, or create a shopping list based on a recipe, all via voice command — transforming the driving experience into a “human-centric” digital journey, according to Bakkenes.

The push to integrate advanced AI and the latest Android OS into cars is part of a broader strategy by Volvo to position itself as a software-driven mobility company, moving beyond traditional car manufacturing.

Andreessen Horowitz-Backed AI Studio Promise Partners with Google, Expands Investor Base

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Generative AI content studio Promise, backed by venture capital giant Andreessen Horowitz, announced a strategic partnership with Google to integrate its cutting-edge AI technologies into the studio’s production tools and creative pipeline.

Promise will leverage Google’s AI capabilities, including collaboration with researchers from DeepMind, to enhance its proprietary workflow software MUSE — a platform aimed at streamlining content production for the entertainment industry.

The studio also revealed it has broadened its investor pool. New funding comes from Google’s AI Futures Fund, Crossbeam Venture Partners, and an increased investment from North Road Company, the media firm founded by former News Corp President Peter Chernin, who is also a co-lead investor.

Promise was co-founded by Fullscreen CEO George Strompolos, former YouTube executive Jamie Byrne, and AI artist Dave Clark. The startup aims to position itself at the forefront of the generative AI boom in entertainment, offering tools to reduce production costs and accelerate timelines for content development.

The company is already working with Hollywood partners on a multi-year slate of AI-driven projects. Production for Promise’s first feature-length film is set to begin later this year, marking a major step in its ambition to reshape storytelling with generative AI.

As traditional studios continue to explore the role of AI in filmmaking, Promise’s alliance with Google could set a precedent for deeper integration of AI into Hollywood’s creative and technical ecosystems.

Google Lays Off Around 200 Employees in Global Business Division: Report

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Google recently announced cuts of approximately 200 jobs within its global business unit, which oversees sales and partnerships, according to a report by The Information. The layoffs reflect a broader trend among major tech companies to shift their focus and resources towards data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) development, while reducing investments in other divisions.

In a statement to Reuters, Google described the job reductions as part of a strategic effort to improve collaboration and enhance its ability to serve customers more efficiently. This restructuring follows earlier workforce reductions; last month, The Information reported that Google had laid off hundreds of employees from its platforms and devices division, responsible for products such as Android, Pixel phones, and the Chrome browser.

Google’s parent company, Alphabet, had previously announced a major workforce reduction in January 2023, cutting 12,000 jobs — roughly six percent of its global staff. As of the end of 2024, Alphabet employed 183,323 people worldwide, according to regulatory filings earlier this year. These recent layoffs continue the company’s efforts to streamline operations amid changing market priorities.

This move is part of a wider industry pattern, with several tech giants adjusting their workforces. Meta cut about five percent of its lowest-performing employees earlier this year while increasing hiring for AI-related roles. Microsoft trimmed 650 jobs in its Xbox division last September, and Amazon has made cuts across various departments, including communications. Apple also reduced roughly 100 positions in its digital services group last year, illustrating the sector-wide shift towards AI and cloud infrastructure investments.