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Big changes are coming to Android Auto — these are the music apps in line for a major redesign
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

Big changes are coming to Android Auto — these are the music apps in line for a major redesign

Google has announced design enhancements for music applications in Android Auto as part of the Android Auto 17.0 beta, revealed at the I/O 2026 developer event. The update will benefit apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, Gaana, PocketFM, and TuneIn. The Car App Library updates provide developers with more flexibility in app interface design, allowing for user-friendly experiences that reduce distractions. New features include an adaptive mini-player for media apps and additional component types like Chip and CondensedItem. Developers are encouraged to join the early-access beta program to utilize the new Car Library App templates.
Android Auto bug is making the signal icon vanish for some users
AppWizard
March 31, 2026

Android Auto bug is making the signal icon vanish for some users

A glitch in the Android Auto ecosystem has caused the cellular signal icon to disappear from car displays, though users can still make calls, access data, and navigate without issues. This bug may be linked to Android Auto version 16.5, and some users have resolved the issue by downgrading to a previous version.
Android Auto update brings movies, web browsing to your car
AppWizard
May 21, 2025

Android Auto update brings movies, web browsing to your car

Google has expanded Android Auto by fully integrating weather applications, allowing developers to create and publish weather apps without additional approvals, provided they follow Google's quality guidelines. This change follows a revision to Google's developer guidelines in December 2024, which addressed the inclusion of weather apps in automotive environments. Users can expect a wider range of weather-related features in Android Auto.
Android Auto seems to be preparing support for more calling apps
AppWizard
October 8, 2024

Android Auto seems to be preparing support for more calling apps

Android Auto is set to introduce support for third-party calling applications with the upcoming Android Auto 13.0 update. This update includes significant behind-the-scenes enhancements, such as a new "Car Media" feature for accessing local media sources and several new flags indicating potential integration of external dialer support. A "Calling" category for Android Automotive exists but is not fully implemented in Android Auto, with WhatsApp mentioned as a potential candidate for calls, although its functionality is currently limited to specific devices like Pixel and Samsung Galaxy smartphones.
Google Blocks Android Auto App and the Company Is in Big Trouble Now
AppWizard
September 6, 2024

Google Blocks Android Auto App and the Company Is in Big Trouble Now

Google is enhancing the Android Auto app landscape while maintaining a curated selection of applications. In 2021, the JuicePass app by Enel was denied launch on Android Auto for not adhering to mandatory templates. Enel escalated the issue to Italian authorities, resulting in a 102 million Euro fine imposed on Google for market power abuse. Google appealed, and the case is now in the European Court of Justice, which is examining potential competition law violations. Google claims JuicePass did not meet security protocols and is working with Enel to address these issues. Google plans to expand the Android Auto ecosystem by introducing new app categories, including video applications, web browsers, and games, with a beta program for developers. YouTube will soon be accessible in vehicles, but users can only engage with it while parked, as the system will lock the screen during driving.
Say Hello to the Future: The New Android Auto App is Here
AppWizard
June 18, 2024

Say Hello to the Future: The New Android Auto App is Here

Smart home apps like eWeLink can now be accessed through Android Auto, allowing users to control tasks like opening the garage door and turning on lights without needing to handle their mobile devices. The Android Auto app ecosystem is expected to expand soon, with Google planning to automatically bring compatible applications to the platform.
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