Android Auto Archives

AppWizard

February 20, 2025

Buckle up: Android Automotive has 70 new apps to keep you entertained (in the parking lot)

Google will soon introduce nearly 70 new applications for Android Automotive, increasing the total number of available apps to nearly 300. The new apps include popular streaming and gaming titles like Farm Heroes Saga, Paramount Plus, Plex, F1 TV, Red Bull TV, and NBC News. These apps will only function when the vehicle is parked to ensure safety. Android Automotive is an embedded operating system in vehicles, distinct from Android Auto, which connects a phone to a vehicle. Currently, around 100 vehicle models feature Android Automotive, including the 2022 Chevrolet Silverado, 2023 Honda Accord, 2025 Ford Explorer, and 2024 Nissan Rogue. The rollout of the new apps will initially target select Volvo and Polestar models, with broader availability expected soon. Google is working with various vehicle manufacturers to enhance the app ecosystem for automotive screens.

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Your Android Automotive dashboard just got a lot more fun with these new apps

Google has introduced a significant expansion of applications for Android Automotive, enhancing the in-car experience for drivers and passengers in vehicles with Google built-in technology. This rollout includes dozens of new applications that can be accessed while the vehicle is parked, unlike Android Auto, which requires a smartphone connection. Android Automotive operates directly on the car's infotainment system, providing pre-installed access to services like Google Maps and Google Assistant. The new initiative, called the "car-ready mobile apps program," involves reviewing the Google Play Store for applications optimized for larger displays. If deemed safe for use in parked vehicles, these applications will be made available through the Play Store in cars running Android Automotive. Starting this week, drivers of select Volvo and Polestar models can download various new applications, including streaming services and light games. Confirmed car-compatible applications include: - Farm Heroes Saga - F1 TV - Roblox - Paramount Plus - Avatar World - Solitaire Grand Harvest - Plex - Fubo - Philo - 2 3 4 Player Mini Games - FOX Nation - NBC News - BritBox - Lifetime - Chess - FanDuel Sports Network - A&E - Dropout - HISTORY: Shows & Documentaries - sand:box

AppWizard

February 19, 2025

Android Automotive set to gain over a dozen new streaming and gaming apps

Android Automotive is expanding its app ecosystem with a new initiative called the “car-ready mobile apps program,” which allows popular applications to transition from mobile devices to in-car dashboards. This expansion includes various games and streaming services designed for use when vehicles are stationary. New applications available include Plex, F1 TV, Red Bull TV, NBC News, Roblox, Farm Heroes Saga, and family-friendly games from Pazu Games. These applications will be accessible in supported vehicles from manufacturers like Volvo and Polestar. Users can install these apps via the Google Play Store in their vehicles or remotely through a dedicated storefront landing page. The app library for Android Automotive still has fewer options compared to the more established Android Auto platform.

AppWizard

February 17, 2025

Google Unveils Car Ready Apps Program in Android Auto 13.8 Update

Google has released the Android Auto 13.8 Beta update, which includes several key features aimed at improving the in-car app experience. - The Car Ready Mobile Apps Program simplifies app integration for developers, increasing the variety of apps available on the car’s display. - A new classification system categorizes apps into three tiers: - Tier 1: Car Differentiated – Designed specifically for in-vehicle use. - Tier 2: Car Optimized – Enhanced apps for a better in-car experience. - Tier 3: Car Ready – Compatible apps needing minimal adjustments when parked. - New accessibility features include reference codes “newappavailable” and “newparkedapp_available,” allowing easier access to apps from the phone to the car’s display, especially when parked. - Fixes in this update include: - Google Maps interface correction for clearer visibility of the location icon. - Resolutions for audio and Bluetooth connectivity issues. The update is available for download through the Google Play Store or via third-party APK links.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Google Maps tests new weather-related incident reports on app & Android Auto

Google Maps has enhanced its incident reporting feature by expanding the types of incidents users can report, now visible to select users on mobile and Android Auto. The new reporting options include flooded roads, low visibility, and unplowed roads, appearing after the "Stalled vehicle" option. The "Police" report has been moved out of the main view. This update follows a previous enhancement in November that simplified the reporting of speed traps.

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

Android Auto 13.7 update now rolling out, hints at new apps

Google has begun rolling out the Android Auto 13.7 update, which introduces subtle enhancements and bug fixes without significant changes in functionality. This is the second update of 2025, and it includes minor adjustments related to the integration of Material You. The app's code suggests potential future features, including "new app" notifications for applications accessible on Android Auto and those usable while parked. Google has a program launching in February 2025 to help developers adapt their apps for car displays, although the current update does not explicitly reference this initiative. The February timeline is specifically for Android Automotive OS, while enhancements for Android Auto are expected later. The rollout occurs in stages, with wider accessibility anticipated throughout the current week.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Android Auto users report issues with TomTom GO, but devs say a fix is coming

Drivers using the TomTom GO app on Android Auto have reported technical difficulties, including error messages and display malfunctions, particularly after a recent update. In February, users expressed dissatisfaction with the app's performance, with one user noting it failed to display in their car. TomTom previously introduced a "truck plan" for larger vehicles, offering tailored navigation considering size and weight restrictions. Last December, Android Auto users experienced audio stuttering and error notifications, leading to advice to use version 13.3 until issues were resolved. In early 2023, Google improved the Android Auto experience by integrating it into the Polestar 2, adding features like HD Radio and enhanced phone connectivity.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Android Auto temporarily loses TomTom Go navigation app, fix coming ‘soon’

Users of the TomTom Go app are experiencing issues with its compatibility with Android Auto, making in-car navigation difficult. The company has acknowledged the problem and is working on a solution. Complaints include the app not appearing on the Android Auto interface and repeated requests for location permissions despite them being granted. The TomTom Go app offers features like real-time traffic updates and an ad-free experience through a subscription model.

AppWizard

February 3, 2025

Android Automotive will be getting lots of new apps, starting next month

Google is launching a car ready mobile apps program next month to expand app availability for vehicles using Android Automotive OS. The program will focus on apps in specific categories, particularly video, gaming, and browsing, while ensuring they meet safety standards and quality guidelines. Apps designed solely for ARM devices will be excluded, but a compatibility mode will allow some non-compliant apps to function safely in vehicles. Eligible applications will be available for download starting February 2025, with potential support for Android Auto in the future. The availability of these apps will depend on vehicle certification by Google, and collaborations with OEMs are expected to increase the number of certified vehicles.

AppWizard

December 24, 2024

Android Auto rolls out fixes for stuttering audio and error messages

Android Auto has released updates to address issues such as persistent Wi-Fi error messages and audio stuttering, encouraging users to update to Android Auto v13.3. The company is investigating audio problems reported by Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro XL users, including complete absence of audio during music streaming and challenges during calls. A Xiaomi 14T user also reported malfunctions with Android Auto after updating to Android 15-based Hyper OS 2.0. The support team is working on fixes, expected in the coming weeks or months. Additionally, the platform is exploring new radio station features, with indications of categories and music genres found in the latest beta version.