At Google I/O 2025, Google doubled down on its push into the connected car space, introducing major updates to Android Auto and Android Automotive OS. From AI-powered voice interactions to a broader app ecosystem spanning navigation, entertainment, and even games, the announcements signal a clear message: your car’s digital dashboard is about to get a lot smarter and a lot more fun.
Gemini Is Coming to the Driver’s Seat
Google’s Gemini AI is making its in-car debut, bringing natural voice controls and contextual awareness to supported vehicles. The goal is to make driving safer and more productive without distracting drivers. Users will be able to ask Gemini to do things like find nearby charging stations or pull up directions from a recent email, all by speaking conversationally.
Navigation apps can now integrate Gemini via three new intent formats, allowing developers to support voice-driven navigation, search, and custom actions such as incident reporting. Gemini integration is expected to roll out in the coming months.
App Categories Expand Across Platforms
- Weather apps are now officially out of beta and can be published by any developer.
- Games are entering beta across both Android Auto (parked mode only) and Android Automotive OS, with titles like Angry Birds 2 and Candy Crush Soda Saga already playable.
- Video apps are on the roadmap for Android Auto later this year, starting with Android 16.
- Communications apps can now integrate richer features like full message history and meeting previews, thanks to updated APIs and templates.
Developers interested in bringing video, gaming, and browser experiences to cars can reference Google’s new “Car Ready,” “Car Optimized,” and “Car Differentiated” tiers to guide quality and compatibility.
New Tools and Templates for Developers
Google is streamlining car app development with a refreshed Car App Templates Design Kit on Figma and two new layouts (SectionedItemTemplate and MediaPlaybackTemplate) in the Car App Library 1.8 alpha release. These are designed to help media apps look and feel more polished and native across platforms.
Distribution is also getting easier. Developers can now use the same APK or app bundle for both phones and Android Automotive OS, with support for mobile release tracks. Testing is more accessible too, thanks to the Pixel Tablet now supporting Android Automotive OS and acting as a receiver for Android Auto.
What’s on the Roadmap?
- Audio-only playback for video apps while driving
- Quick Share between phone and car
- Credential Manager and Passkey support
- Pre-launch reports in the Play Console for car apps
- Firebase Test Lab expansion to include real Android Automotive OS devices
For Developers, the Signal Is Clear
The Android-powered car is no longer a niche; indeed, it’s becoming a standard. With tools like Gemini, new app templates, and easier distribution across platforms, Google is inviting developers to build experiences that go beyond navigation and playlists. Whether it’s checking the weather, joining a call, or crushing candy at a red light (safely parked, of course), the in-car app ecosystem is open for innovation.
