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Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

automotivelinux.org

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Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#2
Toyota's previous generation of head units (all Entune-branded, started rolling out in 2013/2014) used different hardware platforms and OSes, depending on the supplier. But they all ran a UI that was virtually identical, although there were some very minor differences.

The Panasonic-made units ran QNX, Pioneer and Fujitsu Ten units ran Linux. Presumably this means no more QNX.

Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#4
post #3

Based on everything I've read about automotive software development, I'm impressed they've managed to degrade the Linux kernel enough to call it Automotive Grade.

They've been making a serious attempt for the last decade or so, Toyota has been doing especially well. The UI is one thing, and it may be a bit gaudy, but the systems have been getting much better.

Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#5
Well this is interesting. I purchased a 2018 Toyota Camry in August (first ever car purchase), and I absolutely love everything about it except the Toyota Entune 3.0 system. Lack of apps, useless Scout GPS navigation gimmick, and it doesn't even show album cover art while you're driving.

When I was comparing cars, the lack of CarPlay was the only (massive) downside with the Camry, but the other features of the car were so good that I went with it in spite of it.

I wonder what AGL means for the driver. I would love to tweak the OS myself, but I doubt Toyota would let a customer flash their own version of the code (at least not without violating the warranty). I suppose it could mean more frequent updates with better features. Curious to see how this plays out.

Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#6

Well this is interesting. I purchased a 2018 Toyota Camry in August (first ever car purchase), and I absolutely love everything about it except the Toyota Entune 3.0 system. Lack of apps, useless Scout GPS navigation gimmick, and it doesn't even show album cover art while you're driving. When I was comparing cars, the lack of CarPlay was the only (massive) downside with the Camry, but the other features of the car we…

Does it support Android Auto/CarPlay? I use AA all the time now.

Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#7
I've been a loyal toyota buyer for over 30 years. But I will not buy another car, unless it has first class CarPlay support. (and it should support the android equivalent as well) Having to interact with the phone while driving is a safety problem and Apple (and presumably android too) delivered a great solution several years ago-- no excuse for not implementing it.

Especially given that auto makers really suck at this kind of software. My car has navigation and all the bells and whistles (was not a choice when buying) and I ONLY use it as a bluetooth audio receiver, effectively. IT's just terrible for everything else.

I'm drawing a line in the sand here. I will buy a 10 year old used something if I have to and put in an aftermarket CarPlay system. (They're also making it harder to put in aftermarket systems..... ok you going to do that, then you better make yours first class.)

I love that with my current toyota when I get in my phone hooks back up and starts playing music, but I hate having to use the phone screen for navigation and the like, since there are no good auto mounts I can find. [1]

[1] I have a vent based magnetic one. The magnetic attachment is great, but the vent vanes swing back and forth and its never been quite satisfying... right now if I turn at the right speed the phone swings over and turns off the radio by hitting its button. annoying.

Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#8

Well this is interesting. I purchased a 2018 Toyota Camry in August (first ever car purchase), and I absolutely love everything about it except the Toyota Entune 3.0 system. Lack of apps, useless Scout GPS navigation gimmick, and it doesn't even show album cover art while you're driving. When I was comparing cars, the lack of CarPlay was the only (massive) downside with the Camry, but the other features of the car we…

I'm a happy Prius owner, but I bought mine before CarPlay existed. I'm not sure I would buy another Prius to replace my current one, primarily because of the lack of CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Entune interface just isn't very good, and it's not going to get better. This isn't unique to Toyota -- no matter how good the system in your car is, it will seem very outdated after 5 years. In contrast, CarPlay and Android auto are great now and will improve with software updates over time.

Re: Automotive Grade Linux Platform Debuts on the 2018 Toyota Camry

#9
Can someone explain to me, honestly, why I would want an 'entertainmaint' system built into my car? I do long commutes, I drive a lot, I am an occasional truck driver, I have crossed Australia east to west more than once - and I still don't get it. My car is the one place in the world where I stand a decent chance of escaping the all-pervading goddamn film and music industry.
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