electric vehicles Archives

AppWizard

June 28, 2026

Tesla App 4.58.0 Adds Live Supercharging Updates for Android

Tesla has released version 4.58.0 of its app on June 16, 2026, which includes a "Live Updates" feature that allows users to view real-time Supercharging status on their lock screens. This update enhances user convenience by enabling monitoring of charging status without opening the app, and it integrates notifications directly with the lock screen for easy access to important information.

AppWizard

June 9, 2026

Android Auto vs. Android Automotive: 5 major things that separate the two

Android Automotive is an operating system that runs directly on a vehicle's hardware, allowing access to features like navigation and music streaming without needing a smartphone connection. It manages various car functions, including climate control and seat ventilation, and can interact with Google’s Gemini for system control. In contrast, Android Auto mirrors a smartphone's interface on the car's display and primarily provides access to screen and audio output. Updates for Android Auto are managed through the smartphone, while Android Automotive updates are delivered by the vehicle manufacturer, which can vary in timeliness. Android Auto is widely available across many vehicles, whereas Android Automotive is less common and requires manufacturers to integrate it into the car's architecture.

AppWizard

June 5, 2026

Now There’s Finally a Way to Get Apple CarPlay in Your GM-Built EV

General Motors plans to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in its electric vehicles. In response, EVPlay has introduced the EVPlay LT, a device that allows users to continue using these smartphone integration features in GM-built EVs. The EVPlay LT costs , requires no subscription fees, and offers both wired and wireless connectivity. It is compatible with various GM electric vehicles, including the 2024–2026 Chevy Equinox EV, Blazer EV, Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Hummer EV, and Cadillac Escalade IQ. The setup involves downloading an app to the vehicle's infotainment system and connecting the device via USB, which takes about two minutes. EVPlay also offers a premium version, the EVPlay Max, priced at 9, which includes additional features like video streaming and gaming. However, EVPlay has noted the risk that GM could disable the software after installation.

AppWizard

May 28, 2026

4 Android Auto apps I highly recommend for your next road trip – beyond Maps and Spotify

Android Auto enhances road trips by integrating various apps that improve navigation and entertainment. Key apps include: - MyRadar: Provides real-time weather radar updates to help monitor storms. - Fuelio: Tracks fuel costs and mileage, locates nearby gas stations, and logs maintenance. - Scanner Radio: Connects to live local dispatch feeds for emergency services to help navigate traffic. - PlugShare: A directory of global charging stations for electric vehicles, allowing users to filter by plug type and read reviews. - A Better Routeplanner: Assists EV owners in planning routes based on charger availability. Bonus app: - iExit: Offers information about amenities at upcoming exits, useful for truckers, RVers, and families on road trips, although it is not compatible with Android Auto.

AppWizard

March 31, 2026

These 16 Car Brands Just Got A Huge New Android Auto Feature

Google Maps is rolling out an update (version 25.44) for Android Auto users that will provide battery status monitoring for electric vehicles (EVs). This feature will support over 350 car models from 16 manufacturers, offering AI-driven recommendations for charging needs during long journeys. Users can enter their destination to receive insights on battery level upon arrival and estimated time of arrival (ETA), including necessary charging stops. To use this feature, users must add their EV to Google Maps by entering details such as make, model, year, and trim. The feature will not maintain a live connection to the vehicle, and its accuracy depends on the information provided by the user.

AppWizard

March 30, 2026

Get in: Android Auto EVs see AI battery predictions in Google Maps for stress-free plans

Google Maps is introducing a new feature for Android Auto that enhances the driving experience for electric vehicle (EV) users by providing battery predictions. This allows drivers to enter their vehicle's starting battery percentage and receive a list of charging stations along their route, along with energy consumption estimates. The feature will be available for over 350 EV models in the United States and integrates real-time traffic data and specific vehicle information for more accurate usage estimates. This initiative leverages artificial intelligence and aims to improve EV functionality within Google Maps, building on previous updates focused on locating charging stations.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

4 Android Auto apps that make EV range anxiety a thing of the past

Owning a Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric vehicle has provided insights into EV charging, particularly with a Level 2 charger installed at home. Key Android Auto applications help alleviate charging anxiety during road trips. Finding public fast-charging stations can be challenging, requiring more planning than traditional gas vehicles. PlugShare is a useful app for locating reliable public EV chargers, providing a comprehensive list of charging stations, user reviews, and average charging speeds. In the Greater Toronto Area, many EV chargers are often out of service, making PlugShare's features valuable. Waze offers navigation with EV charger information, but its updates may lag behind PlugShare. A Better Route Planner (ABRP) helps plan road trips by tailoring recommendations based on specific EV models and factors affecting battery life, though it requires a subscription. FLO EV Charging is the preferred charging network in the Greater Toronto Area, allowing convenient payments through the app and filtering options for chargers.

AppWizard

February 24, 2026

Steam Next Fest is back and you’ve once again got just 7 days to find your favorite demos among hundreds of choices

The Steam Next Fest is currently taking place, offering a week-long celebration of game demos. It features a wide variety of upcoming titles, including: - Prime Monster: A card-based political roguelike where political leaders are depicted as monsters. - All Will Rise: A narrative deck-builder focused on seeking justice for a slain god. - Vampire Crawlers: A card-based dungeon crawler from the creator of Vampire Survivors. - The Last Gas Station: A game where players control a red panda running a gas station in an electric vehicle-dominated world. - Windrose: An open-world PvE pirate survival game with "soulslite combat" and sea shanties. - Tap Tap Loot: An action-packed game featuring a character reminiscent of Bongo Cat. - Phonopolis: An adventure game from Amanita Design. - Titanium Court: Highlighted as the "first must-play demo" of the event. The Steam Next Fest runs until March 2.

AppWizard

February 16, 2026

Google hasn’t forgotten about video apps for Android Auto

Google announced plans to enhance Android Auto by introducing video app support for users while parked, aimed at improving the experience for electric vehicle owners during charging breaks. A new flag, "CradleFeatureallowvideoapps," was discovered in the latest Android Auto beta version, v16.3.160744, indicating that video app functionality may be forthcoming. However, the feature is not yet active, and additional components are needed for seamless video playback. An APK teardown can reveal potential future features, but not all may be released to the public.

AppWizard

February 16, 2026

Google Signals Android Auto Video Apps Are Imminent

Google is advancing its initiative to enable video applications on Android Auto while vehicles are parked, as indicated by the recent beta update (version 16.3.160744) that includes a configuration flag labeled “CradleFeatureallowvideoapps.” This flag suggests that Google is preparing for approved video experiences on car displays when stationary, although end-user functionality is not yet available. The infrastructure for compatible streaming or playback apps is being established, with safety protocols ensuring that playback will be restricted to parked conditions. Google is likely to introduce a new curated category for video within Android Auto, initially limited to select partners and focusing on content optimized for touch-first interfaces. The beta update also hints at a broader Android Auto UI refresh, including new network icons and driving avatar selection. A staggered rollout of the video feature is anticipated, influenced by content licensing, regional regulations, and automaker collaborations.