Russia's largest IT holding, Yandex, has entered into a strategic agreement with Chinese automaker GAC. Starting in the third quarter of 2025, the updated version of the GS8 crossover will gain access to the Yandex Auto platform, which includes services such as Maps, Music, and Books. The integration will later extend to other models of the brand.
Yandex will adapt its platform to GAC's multimedia systems, allowing drivers to control services directly from the car's screen without using a smartphone. Synchronization via Yandex ID will provide access to saved addresses, playlists, and audiobooks.
The Yandex Auto platform was launched in 2017 and already operates in Lada, Haval, and Wey cars. Manufacturers can choose one of two integration options: a built-in solution in the interface based on Android Automotive OS or a separate Yandex interface with advanced control functions.
The Russian market remains key for GAC: in 2024, the brand's sales increased 6.5 times, reaching 20,105 vehicles. Analysts note that Chinese brands occupy about 60% of the Russian car market, making such partnerships strategically important. In addition to Yandex, other Russian companies are also developing the integration of their services into cars. For example, VK Music has become available in Apple CarPlay, and VK services (Video, News, Messenger) operate in the multimedia systems of Exeed, Jaecoo, and Chery.
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