The ARMSX3 PS3 emulator update brings major improvements, including support for PS3 themes as library backgrounds, fixes for issues with several games, support for SIXAXIS motion on motion-enabled controllers, and touch-control features.
- Implementing car support for your game involves configuring your app manifest and ensuring it respects the vehicle parked state.
- To distribute your app in the games category, mark it as a game by adding the android:appCategory="game" attribute.
- Cars have a parked state where certain apps, like games, are not allowed to run while the vehicle is in motion to avoid driver distraction.
- Declare game controller support by including the android.hardware.gamepad feature in your manifest.
- Make your game fully adaptive to different screen sizes and aspect ratios for a great user experience on car displays.
- Test your game against car app quality guidelines before publishing it for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS form factors.
Google has officially opened the games category for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS to the public. Games can only be played when the car is parked, with sound automatically muted when the car starts moving. Games are launched directly on the car screen and can be controlled via touch display or gamepads. Devices running Android 15 or later are required to play games on Android Auto, and games must be adapted to the car format and pass Google's review. Developers are encouraged to adapt games for different car displays.
Google has officially announced that games for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS are now out of beta and available to all users. The games category on Android Auto features popular titles like Beach Buggy Racing and Angry Birds 2. Gaming on Android Auto is only available when the car is parked to ensure safety. Developers must ensure their games are compatible with various car displays and can add controller support. Devices must be running Android 15 or higher to access the Games category on Android Auto.
HSBC has restricted its Android app from functioning within Samsung's Secure Folder and Android's Private Space, causing many customers to lose access to online banking services. The bank described this as a "proportionate security control" to mitigate risks, stating that customers must use the app outside these environments. Feedback from users has been largely negative, with complaints about abrupt access loss and inadequate communication regarding the changes. Customers are unable to utilize web banking due to the app's requirement for multifactor authentication, and some have raised concerns about HSBC's compliance with the Financial Conduct Authority's Consumer Duty. HSBC has advised customers to access the app outside of protected spaces and mentioned the option of using a Physical Secure Key for desktop banking.
Android Auto games are now generally available for parked use, allowing developers to publish games through Google Play without limited approval processes. These games are specifically designed for stationary moments in the vehicle and are not playable while driving. Developers must declare game category and car support in the app manifest, and support for one platform does not automatically mean support for the other.
Google Maps is introducing a new feature on Android Auto that displays pop-ups for traffic lights and stop signs at the next turn during navigation, enhancing the driving experience by providing clearer visual cues. This feature is currently being rolled out and is expected to be available to all users soon. Additionally, users have reported issues with the speedometer feature, which disappears when turn-by-turn navigation is not active and inconsistently switches between kilometers per hour and miles per hour. Google has not provided updates on these issues.
- Game content only runs while the vehicle is parked for safety reasons
- Games run directly through the car's infotainment screen without the need for a smartphone
- Developers must adapt their interfaces to accommodate various screen sizes and aspect ratios for automotive displays
- Progress saving is mandatory for users to resume the game from where they left off
In modern workplaces, the balance between innovation and security is crucial as employees seek access to advanced technology while IT departments protect sensitive data. Android is enhancing its tools for workers through Android Enterprise, with key advancements expected by 2026, including:
1. Advanced AI agents and controls:
- Smarter workflows will introduce next-generation AI agents with enterprise-grade controls.
- The evolution of Gemini will enable management of complex workflows using real-time context, eliminating manual app switching.
- Built-in safeguards will ensure work profile isolation, preventing personal agents from accessing corporate data.
- Administrators will have granular control to configure or disable AI automation through Android Enterprise.
2. Next-gen manageable XR devices:
- New hardware like the XREAL Aura wired glasses will enhance workforce capabilities.
- IT administrators will manage a range of XR devices alongside standard mobile fleets using Enterprise Mobility Management consoles.
- Employees will benefit from hands-free productivity with integrated displays, audio, and AI assistance while connected to enterprise tools.
A glitch in Google Maps is affecting Android Auto users, causing the speedometer feature to switch inconsistently between miles per hour (MPH) and kilometers per hour (KPH), regardless of user settings. Reports from users indicate that some see MPH when they prefer KPH and vice versa. The cause of the inconsistency is unclear, though one theory suggests proximity to international borders may be a factor.