Google Play Store Will Offer GA ADS-B To Satisfy 2020 mandate

ANN's April 1st "April Fools" Special Edition

With the 2020 deadline for ADS-B compliance just five years away, Google is getting into the game with an Android-based solution.

Mountain View, CA headquarter spokesman Arthur C. Clarke stated in a press release April 1 that Google aims to provide an ADS-B solution for the masses, and the system is already flying on the Google fleet of eight corporate aircraft that are based at Moffett Field, CA. These include a Boeing 767 and a Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet.

The system consists of an Android-based device that will provide a low-cost solution to the daunting ADS-B mandate. Google is partnering with Espoo, Finland-based Rovio, makers of the popular game "Angry Birds”, to make the ADS-B pleasing to the eye of all aviators.

Initially an experimental aircraft-only product, the system is scheduled to launch in late July. If all goes according to schedule, the product will make its debut in Oshkosh, WI for the EAA airshow, the perfect venue for the experimental aircraft version. However, another system will be available for certified aircraft in 18 months or less, well ahead of the January 01, 2020 mandate.

Perhaps the greatest part of this new product, besides the free streaming from Pandora and “Okay Google” speak-to-text features, is the price. While traditional ADS-B systems are priced in the thousands, the hardware for the system is projected to cost no more than $300. A free version will be supported mainly by banner ads, and a premium subscription will be ad-free.

The systems are based on the current Lollipop software. The device and app, code-named “Sucker”, promises reliability matching that of existing handheld devices. The hardware is a panel-mounted, portable handset that will be battery-powered, so it can be used in multiple cockpits.

In a constant fight to be furthest along in our high-tech world, Cupertino, CA-based Apple spokesperson Stephanie Speck responded to Google's news hours ago. Her statement indicates that the company plans a wearable ADS-B solution, with the Apple watch as a basis for the system.

Hopeful users look forward to downloading the free trial version on the Google Play Store on April 1, 2015.

FMI: www.google.com