At this year’s I/O conference, Google detailed the new version of Android Auto that will be available to all users later this summer.
The big change is that the user interface will now adapt to different screen sizes and orientations, which will be split by default. The goal is to give drivers quick and easy control over the three most frequently used aspects of Android Auto – maps, multimedia controls and messaging.
Google Assistant, notifications, maps, music player, and other apps will be easily accessible on the screen (three active windows at once), whether it is portrait or landscape orientation. The smaller windows will either be at the bottom or on the side of the screen closer to the steering wheel. The Assistant will now offer quick responses to conversations, including the ability to share an estimated time of arrival with your contacts.
Cars with Android Auto built-in, including new Volvo, Ford and GMC models, will get additional benefits while the car is parked. These include a web browser and the ability to watch videos on YouTube, Tubi and Epix Now on the car’s screen.
Google also said it is working on adding more video content and the ability to stream videos to the car’s display.