Volvo Cars has commenced its largest over-the-air (OTA) software update to date, delivering a new user experience (UX) to approximately 2.5 million customers globally. The update is available for Volvo models with Google built-in manufactured as early as 2020, including the XC40, XC60, and XC90.
The “Volvo Car UX” update introduces a more intuitive layout designed to reduce the number of taps required to access core functions. Maps, media, and phone controls are now presented on a single home screen, allowing drivers to change music without exiting navigation.
Anders Bell, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer at Volvo Cars, stated:
“This update is one of the largest over-the-air updates in automotive history, leveraging years of investment in Volvo Cars’ tech stack to improve life with their cars for millions of people. Our new user experience delivers significant updates and improvement in areas most used by drivers, and directly addresses the needs and desires of our customers.”
New features include a contextual bar that adapts to driving situations—such as displaying camera icons at low speeds—and a one-tap ‘Pure’ mode for plug-in hybrid drivers to switch to electric-only power. Furthermore, the update enables customers without Pilot Assist to purchase and download the feature. This rollout also prepares the vehicle’s hardware for Google Gemini conversational AI, which is expected to launch later this spring.
