What you need to know
- Google is working on bringing Google Cast support to Android Auto, allowing audio and video casting from phones to cars.
- Code strings in Android Auto 15.9 hint at Cast integration, suggesting Google is actively developing in-car casting features.
- Android Auto is also adopting Material 3 Expressive design, with refreshed media controls spotted in the latest build.
For those eagerly anticipating the ability to cast videos and audio from their Android smartphones to Android Auto, promising developments are on the horizon. Recent discoveries within the code of Android Auto version 15.9.655104 indicate that Google is making strides to integrate Google Cast support into the platform, as reported by 9to5Google. The code strings, embedded within the Media Router framework, contain multiple references to Cast, hinting at an active effort by Google to enhance in-car entertainment experiences.
While the feature is not yet available for public use, the presence of these references suggests that Google has concrete plans for its implementation. Notably, Android Automotive already supports Google Cast, making it a logical next step for Google to extend similar capabilities to Android Auto. To clarify, Android Auto relies on a smartphone to project its interface onto the car’s display, whereas Android Automotive operates natively within the vehicle, independent of a phone.
Google is testing something new inside Android Auto
In addition to the anticipated casting capabilities, Google has previously hinted at introducing video support for Android Auto, which could be part of the features currently under development. The latest build of Android Auto, version 15.9, is also embracing the Material 3 Expressive design language, signifying a fresh aesthetic approach.
According to Android Authority, the media player within this build has begun transitioning to the updated design, showcasing a new progress bar and refreshed button styles. Although these features are not enabled by default, some users have managed to activate them manually. As of now, these enhancements are still in the works, and while they are not ready for public release, updates will be provided as Google rolls out these exciting changes more broadly.
