Google and SK Telecom Join Forces... Using T map Instead of Kakao Navi
Android Auto-Tmap Integration Service to Launch in the Second Half of the Year
[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] Starting as early as the second half of this year, SK Telecom's T map will be available on Google's in-car platform 'Android Auto' instead of Kakao Navi. This is the result of a partnership between Google and SK Telecom.
According to industry sources on the 27th, Google and SK Telecom are currently conducting various tests to launch a service linking Android Auto with T map, the No. 1 navigation app in Korea, in the second half of this year. The official launch is expected to be in the fall.
Until now, Google has had an exclusive contract with Kakao Mobility in Korea, providing the navigation app Kakao Navi. However, through the new cooperation with SK Telecom, it is expected that the 18 million users of T map will be able to use it on Android Auto instead of the existing Kakao Navi.
Android Auto is a platform that connects the vehicle screen with an Android smartphone to support key functions. Most recently released vehicles are equipped with Android Auto.
Unlike its competitor Apple’s 'CarPlay,' Google does not allow navigation apps other than its own products such as Google Maps and Waze. However, only in Korea, it supports navigation apps from external companies. This is because Google does not provide navigation services in Korea. Previously, Google requested the Korean government to allow the export of detailed maps necessary for domestic navigation services to overseas servers, but the government’s demand to obscure security-sensitive facilities such as the Blue House and military bases in overseas satellite photo services was rejected, and the plan was ultimately abandoned.
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A Google Korea representative said, "We are collaborating with various partners," but did not comment separately on the service launch plans. An SK Telecom official responded, "There is nothing we can confirm."
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