Android Auto has long relied on the default dialer app of connected smartphones for making calls. However, with the anticipated rollout of the Android Auto 13.0 update, users may soon enjoy the flexibility of third-party calling applications.
Recent insights from the APK Insight team reveal that while the update has begun to reach users without any noticeable changes, it has introduced significant behind-the-scenes enhancements. Among these is the development of a “Car Media” feature, which will allow access to local media sources within the vehicle, such as the radio. More intriguingly, the update has introduced several new flags that hint at forthcoming capabilities.
- “Dialerexternaldialerallow_list”
- “Dialerexternaldialerenabled”
- “Dialerswapcallstartappkill_switch”
While these flags may not provide a complete picture, they suggest a move towards integrating external dialer support into the Android Auto ecosystem. The terminology used aligns with similar features seen in messaging and wireless functionalities, indicating a potential shift in how users interact with their devices while driving.
In a related note, a page from Google highlights a “Calling” category for Android Automotive, which currently exists but has yet to be fully implemented in Android Auto. This feature is limited to select applications, and while WhatsApp has been mentioned as a potential candidate for supporting calls on Android Auto, its functionality remains restricted to specific devices, such as Pixel and Samsung Galaxy smartphones. Users can opt to make calls through WhatsApp for particular contacts, providing a glimpse into the future of communication on the platform.
More on Android Auto:
Follow Ben: Twitter/X, Threads, and Instagram
Thanks to JEB Decompiler, from which some APK Insight teardowns benefit.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
