Enel Archives

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

Android Auto app design limits raise regulatory flags

Google has faced regulatory scrutiny in the European Union regarding its Android Auto application templates, which have been criticized for favoring its own navigation services over third-party apps. The Italian app JuicePass, designed for electric vehicle charging, encountered difficulties launching on Android Auto due to these restrictive templates, leading to legal challenges and a 2021 penalty against Google. The EU Court Advocate General has suggested that Google's practices may breach competition rules. Although Google has started to relax some restrictions on Android Auto apps, JuicePass remains unavailable, with Google initially citing security concerns for its absence.

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

Google Blocks Android Auto App and the Company Is in Big Trouble Now

Google is enhancing the Android Auto app landscape while maintaining a curated selection of applications. In 2021, the JuicePass app by Enel was denied launch on Android Auto for not adhering to mandatory templates. Enel escalated the issue to Italian authorities, resulting in a 102 million Euro fine imposed on Google for market power abuse. Google appealed, and the case is now in the European Court of Justice, which is examining potential competition law violations. Google claims JuicePass did not meet security protocols and is working with Enel to address these issues. Google plans to expand the Android Auto ecosystem by introducing new app categories, including video applications, web browsers, and games, with a beta program for developers. YouTube will soon be accessible in vehicles, but users can only engage with it while parked, as the system will lock the screen during driving.

AppWizard

September 6, 2024

Google limits on Android Auto access may breach EU rules, court adviser says

The ongoing dispute between Google and Enel over access to the Android Auto platform has attracted attention from European legal authorities. The Italian antitrust regulator fined Google 102 million euros in 2021 for refusing to allow Enel's JuicePass app to integrate with its software. Advocate General Laila Medina suggested that Google's actions may violate competition regulations by preventing third-party applications from accessing its platforms, potentially harming consumers. Google defended its position by citing security concerns and the absence of a standardized template for integration. The company has appealed to the Italian Council of State and is working to address the situation. The Court of Justice of the European Union is set to rule on the case, designated as C-233/23 Alphabet and Others, in the coming months.