Hidden within the intricate code of Android Auto lies a potential enhancement that could revolutionize the way users interact with their apps while driving. This feature suggests the possibility of expanding the number of app columns from the current five to as many as six or seven, thereby offering a more streamlined experience for drivers.
Enhancements on the Horizon
Google has been diligently implementing a series of updates to Android Auto, yet these changes have largely maintained the existing framework of the platform. However, a notable shift may be on the horizon, allowing users to access a broader array of applications. Presently, the app tray on Android Auto accommodates up to five columns, which can vary based on the vehicle’s screen size. While the platform exclusively showcases compatible apps, those with extensive app collections often find themselves scrolling through numerous options, which can be cumbersome.
Recent investigations by Android Authority have unveiled that the code for Android Auto harbors support for up to seven app columns. Although this feature is not yet available to users, its existence within the code hints at future enhancements that could significantly improve the user interface.
In contrast, Apple CarPlay faces the challenge of balancing essential services with the need to minimize distractions while driving. The limited selection of Android Auto apps is arguably beneficial, as it encourages a focus on navigation, communication, and entertainment—core functionalities that enhance the driving experience. Google has also integrated weather information into the platform, recognizing its universal importance for drivers.
When parked, users can access a variety of browsers, games, and video applications. However, this abundance can lead to clutter, making it difficult to find the tools most relevant to driving. While these apps are not usable while on the road, their presence in the app list can detract from the essential applications that drivers rely on.
In reality, many drivers tend to gravitate towards a select few applications—typically one for navigation, one for music, and one for messaging—rather than needing an extensive array of options at their fingertips.
Android Auto also enhances the app-opening experience through Google Assistant, which is set to transition to the new Gemini system. This integration allows drivers to utilize the voice button on their steering wheel, enabling them to open apps and execute commands without needing to interact with the screen directly. This hands-free functionality is crucial for maintaining focus on the road.
The anticipated increase in app columns may reflect the evolving landscape of in-car displays. As vehicles transition from standard 8-inch screens to larger 15-inch displays and more portrait-oriented layouts, the demand for a more efficient app organization becomes increasingly apparent. Whether this promising feature will soon materialize remains to be seen.
