automotive Archives

AppWizard

May 27, 2026

Fortnite Porsche collab concept art is clearly AI, and for some odd reason it even added the Riot Games logo

Epic Games clarified that the artwork created for its collaboration with Porsche was supplied by Porsche and was not used in Fortnite or the car configurator; it was solely for illustrating the configurator concept. The collaboration involves a Fortnite-themed backdrop for Porsche's car configurator, which uses Unreal Engine. Concerns have arisen regarding the quality of the concept art, which appears AI-generated and features a distorted representation of the Porsche logo. The artwork also includes the logo of Riot Games, suggesting a connection to a previous collaboration with Wild Rift. Porsche has expanded its digital presence in gaming, with recent partnerships including Wild Rift, Resident Evil Requiem, and plans for Overwatch in 2024.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

PC 90% Rated Game Free But Not For Long, It’s Your Last Chance

Steam is offering Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 for free, a game focused on automotive repair with a 90% positive rating from over 21,000 reviews. The game allows players to manage a virtual car repair service and is noted for its detailed mechanics. The free offer will end on May 27.

AppWizard

May 23, 2026

Steam Game From 2017 Now Free For a Limited Time Only

Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 is available for free on Steam until May 27th at 1 PM ET. Originally released in 2017 by Red Dot Games, it typically costs .99 and has received a “Very Positive” rating from over 20,000 players. The game allows players to repair, paint, tune, and drive various cars while building a repair service empire. It includes features such as Barn Find and Junkyard modules, a Car Editor for personal creations, car auctions, and a photo mode for capturing automotive projects. The game offers an infinite number of randomly generated missions. An upcoming installment, Car Mechanic Simulator 2026, is set to be released in 2026.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 Now Available on Xbox Series X|S and PC

The official Forza Discord server is a hub for players of Forza Horizon 6 to connect, find companions for adventures, engage in Shared World Meetups, and participate in casual racing and drifting. The community also facilitates discussions about the game and automotive culture, hosts contests, and allows members to showcase their creative talents. Players can follow @ForzaHorizon on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X for updates on new features, events, and community highlights. Members are encouraged to share their creations by tagging official channels.

AppWizard

May 18, 2026

Android Auto adds video apps, Dolby Atmos and Gemini help for 2026

Android Auto will receive a major upgrade in 2026, introducing Full HD video apps at 60 frames per second for select vehicles, starting with brands like BMW, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz. Video content will be available for passengers while parked, but will switch to audio-only mode when the vehicle is in motion. The platform will also enhance audio with Dolby Atmos support and a more flexible media application design. Google Maps will feature Immersive Navigation with edge-to-edge maps and live lane guidance using the front-facing camera. Additionally, Gemini will be integrated into Android Auto, offering contextual understanding and features like Magic Cue for sharing addresses. A Zoom app for Android Auto is expected to launch this year, with various enhancements for Android Automotive vehicles.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Android Auto is getting video apps, music updates, and more Gemini smarts

Google is enhancing the Android Auto experience throughout 2026 with updates that include the integration of video apps like YouTube, supporting 60fps and FHD playback in select vehicle models from brands such as BMW, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz. An audio-only mode for video apps will activate automatically when the vehicle is in motion, allowing drivers to listen without distraction. Android Auto will also introduce Dolby Atmos support for audio, a design overhaul for media applications, and immersive navigation features in Google Maps, including live lane guidance for vehicles with "Google built-in." Additionally, a Zoom app for Android Auto is expected to launch, and a new feature called Gemini Intelligence will enhance user interaction by enabling context-aware tasks, such as sending addresses and placing orders via voice commands.

BetaBeacon

May 7, 2026

[Industry news] P3 Partners with Inlogic to Bring New Android-powered Games to SPARQ OS In-Vehicle Infotainment Platform

P3 digital services partners with Inlogic Games to bring over 250 HTML5 games to the SPARQ OS infotainment system.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Android Auto app widgets mirror mobile setup, leak shows as release nears

Android Auto is set to receive a significant update with the introduction of a widget selection feature, codenamed "Gemini." This update aims to enhance user experience and integrates widgets into the driving experience. The "car widgets" menu is accessible in Android Auto version 16.8.161804-release.daily, featuring a layout similar to home screen widget selection on Android devices. The menu includes a highlighted section, browsing option, and search bar, with app options like Calendar, Chrome, Google Drive, and ChatGPT. Google may impose limitations on widget functionality within the dashboard for optimal display and usability. There is currently no timeline for the official announcement of this feature, but it may be highlighted at the upcoming Google I/O event.

AppWizard

April 13, 2026

Google Meet lands on Android Auto, but there’s a catch

Google Meet has launched an audio-only version for Android Auto, prioritizing driver safety by allowing meetings without video. The app features a user-friendly interface with Scheduled and History tabs for easy access to meetings. However, it currently lacks complete support for work profiles, meaning users cannot access work schedules or meeting history from the car. The design does not include a virtual green room or pre-call screen, and users join meetings immediately upon tapping. While the audio-only format aims to enhance productivity, it raises concerns about work-life balance and may lead to missed information during discussions. Users may join smaller meetings with microphones activated, and larger calls may have users muted by default. For more complex tasks, users are advised to pull over and use their phones. The rollout of this feature is happening in stages.

Winsage

April 7, 2026

Apple’s chips are the core of a new landscape, but its biggest win is Windows

Apple introduced its M1 Apple Silicon systems in late 2020, which received admiration but raised concerns due to a restrictive ecosystem. Over five years, Apple’s architecture has evolved, addressing challenges like gigabit Wi-Fi and high-speed expansion, yet it remains focused on desktops and laptops. The anticipated MacBook Neo, lacking an M-type System on Chip, has created apprehension within the Windows ecosystem. Currently, no Windows laptop can match the MacBook Neo in hardware quality and startup experience, while macOS offers a more tranquil workspace compared to the distractions of Windows 11. Apple has effectively utilized advancements in processor technology and manufacturing control to produce efficient chips and maintain a coherent ecosystem, making its products increasingly accessible. In contrast, Windows OEMs face challenges with component sourcing, build quality, and reliance on bloatware. There is potential for Microsoft to create a Windows Neo variant that meets user needs, while the sustainability of current business models for Windows OEMs is uncertain.