Google is out with 70 new “partners” that integrate with Google Now, the contextual, timely Android app that keeps you informed about everything from weather to commute times to what’s good to eat at the food court. But some of the most interesting integrations are auto-related. Here’s the best we’ve found.
If you’re driving a C-Max Energi, Fusion Energi, or Focus Electric, the MyFord Mobile app integration with Now taps into your calendar to remote start and pre-heat or pre-cool your car based on your next appointment. It also works using the MyLincoln app for the MKC and MKZ, and the forthcoming MKX.
ZipCar now keeps track of your return time and provides direction to the nearest drop-off location in Now cards, without having to open the app.
Fan favorite Waze was one of the first traffic apps that gave you a bit more data on your drive than what’s normally integrated into Google Maps. That’s now baked into Now to gives you a heads up on heavy traffic and accidents on your route and in your area.
Ride-sharing app Lyft will recognize when you’re leaving your destination and automatically surface a card that allows you to summon a car.
Parking location has been around for a while. It recognizes when you stop and drops a pin that provides walking directions back to your car.
Rather than fumbling with your phone to find a playlist, Now is surfacing Pandora, Spotify, and other streaming services automatically. And just live everything else with Google Now, the more you use it, the smarter (and creepier) it gets.
Google has over 100 integrations for Now – including several ride-sharing services that aren’t in the U.S. – so if you’ve got your own favorites, tell us.