Most recently, Renault has re-launched the Duster in India, and along with strong mechanics (I’m talking about the 1.3L turbo-petrol engine), the car also comes with a strong software base. Why do I say that? Unlike most vehicles in its segment that feature Android Auto phone mirroring, the 2026 Renault Duster ships with Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS).
But what is AAOS anyway, and why do I say that it’s different from regular Android Auto? Let’s find out.
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What is Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS)?
AAOS is a full-stack, standalone operating system designed to run directly on a car’s hardware, functioning not only as the infotainment platform but also as the software counterpart that lives and breathes alongside your car’s electronic system (unlike Android Auto, which is projected onto the car’s screen).
The car-specific operating system is built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), which uses the same core codebase as mobile versions but includes automotive-specific functions. On top of the regular codebase, the operating system has the Vehicle Hardware Abstraction Layer (VHAL), which acts as the bridge between the software and physical vehicle components like sensors, engine control units (ECUs), and cabin hardware.
In addition to that, AAOS can manage the vehicle-related functions, such as climate control, driver profiles, power management, etc. It also includes Google Automotive Services (GAS), a proprietary suite of apps like Google Maps, Assistant, and Play Store, that manufacturers can opt to license and offer to buyers.
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| Android Auto | Android Automotive OS |
| A projection app that mirrors your smartphone’s interface onto the car screen via USB or wireless connection. | A standalone system that runs on the car’s processor. |
| It relies entirely on the phone’s processing power and data. | It works without a phone and has direct access to the car’s internal data (speed, fuel levels, battery status). |
What Are The Advantages Of AAOS Over Android Auto?
- AAOS can control native vehicle functions such as HVAC (climate), seat heating, and ADAS alerts directly through the UI or voice commands.
- Google Maps can access real-time vehicle data to suggest charging stops based on current battery levels in EVs.
- Supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates, allowing manufacturers to add new features or security patches without a dealership visit.
- Apps are optimized specifically for driving environments to minimize distraction.
The biggest perk, however, remains that when a car supports AAOS, you don’t need to connect your smartphone to its infotainment system, either via a wired connection or wirelessly, to stream music, set navigation, or access other Google apps. So, your smartphone can rest peacefully or charge without the constant battery drain caused by Android Auto projection.
Which Cars Offer AAOS In India?
While AAOS is standard in several international markets, it is currently limited to premium car models in India (either due to limited awareness among buyers or because it is more expensive for manufacturers).
- Volvo: All current models, like the XC40 Recharge, XC60, XC90, and C40 Recharge, use “Google built-in” (AAOS).
- BMW: Newer models equipped with BMW Operating System 9 (like the X1, X2, and 2 Series) run on an AOSP-based platform.
- Audi: The upcoming Q6 e-tron and A5 (expected in 2026) are slated to feature AAOS.
- Hyundai: Has officially announced it will transition its entire Indian portfolio to an AAOS-based platform starting in Q1 2027, beginning with a new hatchback and SUV.
- Renault: The upcoming Next-gen Duster (expected 2025-26) is likely to feature the OpenR Link system, which is based on AAOS.
So, now you know another unique feature about the newly-launched Renault Duster, something that no other car in the segment offers, including the most popular choices like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, or the Kia Seltos.
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Exclusive EV AAOS Features That You Should Know About
In addition to running natively on your car’s infotainment system, AAOS offers several exclusive EV-centric features that Android Auto doesn’t.
- Dynamic Range Mapping: Google Maps on AAOS can predict your car’s estimated battery level upon arrival at the set destination. If the charge is insufficient, it automatically identifies and adds compatible charging stops along your route.
- Persistent Charging Filters: Unlike mobile apps that reset, AAOS allows you to save “Fast Charge” presets (e.g., 150kW or higher) and specific connector types (like CCS2, common in India) as permanent defaults.
- Battery Pre-conditioning: When you set a high-speed charger as your destination in Google Maps, AAOS can prep the battery (pre-warm or cool using built-in temperature management systems) to the optimal charging temperature.
- Real-Time Charger Availability: In collaboration with Indian networks such as ElectricPe and Statiq, the system displays real-time data on whether a specific charger is occupied or available.
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