

Android Auto is about to get some neat changes that will improve not only how it looks on your car's touchscreen but also how it functions. You'd be forgiven for missing the automotive updates among the huge list of new features that came out of Google I/O 2022 but if you already use Android Auto in your car, you'll appreciate them.
Google describes the main change as a brand new look, which in essence it is. The new design is fully adaptive to different car screens – whether they are portrait, landscape, ultra-wide or something in between. Not only does this mean that the OS will make use of the whole screen, rather than just a section of it (for those portrait or ultra-wide options) but you'll be able to do more without coming out of the navigation view.
The split-screen setup means that you get either a side or bottom bar next to the map that can display other app functions. So you can show incoming messages, your music player, or even browse through all apps, while the navigation view stays in place.
The Google Assistant functionality is also getting an upgrade. Contextual suggestions will allow you to pick from suggested replies to messages, share your arrival time or get recommendations on music, all without having to touch the screen.
Android Automotive – the version of Android Auto that's built into vehicles like the Polestar – is also getting some new features. Building on the features announced at CES in January, this will include the ability to watch movies on your screen while the car is parked, through YouTube, Tubi and Epix Now. There will also be a web browser, so in theory, you will be able to watch content from other streaming platforms too.
You can read more about that here: Android Auto got an amazing new feature that no one is talking about.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
No stupid questions: which direction should you pitch a tent?
An outdoor expert reveals all so you can have a better night's rest
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
I'm late to one of Netflix's best sci-fi shows – and now eager for season 2
3 Body Problem is brain-bending sci-fi wonderment – and I want more already
By Mike Lowe Published
-
Android Auto could get a feature upgrade with control over one of your car's main systems
Google to turn the heat up on Android Auto controls
By Chris Hall Published
-
Android Auto reboot issue seems to have a fairly innocuous explanation
Have you been experiencing Android Auto reboot problems? This is what caused it
By Chris Hall Published
-
Android Auto users get some great news after botched update
The latest update to Android Auto didn't quite go as planned, but Google has been quick to respond
By Chris Hall Published
-
Android Auto gets a major Google Maps update, but it divides opinions
It's a minor tweak, but this Android Auto update has upset a lot of people
By Chris Hall Published
-
Android Auto gets a significant free Maps upgrade
This change to Android Auto will make your daily driving easier
By Chris Hall Published
-
New Android Auto update lays the groundwork for major music push
There’s a big update coming to Android Auto that will change everything
By Chris Hall Published
-
New Android Auto free update starts rolling out – prepares your car for a big feature push
Long-awaited changes are coming to Android Auto
By Chris Hall Published
-
Android Auto finally gets Google Maps feature that's been on CarPlay for months
Parity is resumed
By Chris Hall Published