Audi 'in discussion' with Apple to bring iOS to its motors

Audi has only just jumped into bed with Google to use its Android mobile operating system in its cars, but it could soon bring Apple's iOS to its motors.

During a press conference, an Audi spokesperson said using Android was a "logical step" because the majority of the world's smart phones run it. But he added the German car firm is in talks with Apple about bringing iOS to its dashboards, T3.com reports.

"We do not leave the Apple devices out," said Ricky Hudi, Audi's chief executive engineer electrics/electronics. "We are also in discussions with Apple to integrate it in the same way."

Quite how Google feels about this, I'm not sure. When I contacted it, a spokesperson declined to comment.

It was announced that Audi was part of the Open Auto Alliance -- a group of car manufacturers who will use Google's Android OS to add smart functionality to their cars. The alliance also includes General Motors, Honda, and Hyundai, as well as chipmaker Nvidia. The first Android-running cars should hit the road this year.

Audi also showed off a 10-inch Android tablet that's designed to be integrated in its cars. Passengers can use the device to control the car's satnav, audio, telephone, and other functions.

Like other Android devices, it can download and run apps from Google Play.

Audi and Google have been partners for a while. "Cooperation goes back to 2004 with the integration of Google Earth functionality," Hudi said in the press conference.

"It was a logical step to go to Android with 80 per cent of the worldwide smart phones being Google."

Apple is also jumping into the passenger seat. The Cupertino company unveiled its iOS in the Car feature as part of iOS 7. Who would you rather have as a copilot? Android or iOS? Let me know in the comments, or park yourself over on our Facebook page.