Google introduces new Android Open Accessory Toolkit

Now if you purchase a smartphone or tablet, you will not have to spend extra on accessories such as a docking cradle, handsfree kits, keyboards, game controllers, mice et alia. Researchers at Google are developing the Android Open Accessory Toolkit, a new concept that will enable users to connect several input devices through open source hardware interfaces, such as Arduino to tablets or phones, basically to any Android system.

android accessory phone tablets

The toolkit is an attempt at creating wider options of Android accessories. Basically, anyone on the android platform will be able to enhance the productivity of their device by adding suitable accessories or even create their own accessory. You can actually use the Android Open Accessory Toolkit to create a wireless system to control the lighting and even room temperature at home. The kit enables you to do the same with a Bluetooth or an USB device.

Specially designed Arduino boards form an integral part of the kit. These boards will function as reference designs. Coders and enthusiasts can even do some coding of their own and connect to android systems. Easy availability of affordable electronics and a mine of open source information and tools will open up new avenues for creative developers.

The Android@Home is the first such product replete with the Android Open Accessory Toolkit and is set to hit the markets by the end of this year.

Via: CrunchGear