in-car experience Archives

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

Google’s Gemini is now on Android Auto

Android Auto users can now use Google's Gemini AI assistant, which offers a conversational voice assistant for tasks like directions, managing messages, and errands. To access Gemini, users need to download a dedicated app on their Android devices, which will then appear on the car's infotainment display. Activation can be done by saying “Hey Google,” tapping the microphone icon, or long-pressing the voice control button. Gemini is exclusive to Android Auto and is not available for Apple CarPlay. Future updates may bring Gemini to vehicles with built-in Android operating systems. The assistant can handle complex tasks, engage in casual conversation, and help with various requests while keeping drivers focused on the road. However, there are concerns about potential cognitive distraction from using voice assistants in vehicles.

AppWizard

October 29, 2025

Android Auto could soon get a long-overdue feature for music lovers, and here’s a look

Google is preparing to introduce a significant update to Android Auto that will enhance the user experience by allowing users to swipe and cycle through multiple media cards on the dashboard. This update will enable seamless transitions between different audio applications, eliminating the need to reopen previously used apps when switching between them. Users will be able to access music cards for different apps without navigating back to the previous app, streamlining the experience for those who frequently toggle between various audio sources. This feature is still in development and not yet available to the public.

AppWizard

October 7, 2025

Google may be pulling the plug on Android Auto’s in-car mini-games

Google is phasing out its collection of HTML5 mini-games, known as GameSnacks, from Android Auto, with many users reporting their disappearance in both beta and stable versions. This change indicates a planned retirement rather than a temporary issue. In place of these mini-games, Google is introducing more robust Android titles such as Candy Crush and Beach Buggy Racing. The transition aligns with Android Auto's support for fully-fledged Android games, which promise a smoother gaming experience and can be played in full-screen mode when the vehicle is parked.

AppWizard

July 9, 2025

Samsung’s alleged ‘Auto DeX’ leak is an Android Auto variant you might see

Samsung is reportedly developing a new feature called "Auto DeX" as an alternative to Android Auto, designed to work on smartphones in vehicles that may not support traditional automotive software. The user interface, shared by a tipster, includes an off-center box for primary content, a "Brief" tile, a music application, and dual app bars for ease of use while driving. "Auto DeX" may be inspired by Samsung's existing DeX technology and is expected to be compatible with One UI 7 and 8, particularly for the Galaxy S25 series and the latest foldable devices. The feature is still in early development and has not yet entered internal testing. This development recalls Google's discontinued Android Auto for phone screens, which allowed access to features directly from smartphones. Additionally, Samsung is working on its own version of Android's earthquake alerts.

AppWizard

May 28, 2025

Android is going to play nicer with video apps in the car soon

Google is enhancing the in-car experience for Android users with a new mode for vehicles equipped with Android Automotive, allowing for seamless transitions between video and audio-only formats based on whether the vehicle is parked or in motion. The company is also preparing to introduce video applications for traditional phone-based Android Auto, which may adapt to the vehicle's movement. Google might implement a digital toggle for users to switch from video to audio-only streams before driving, addressing potential limitations of smartphone accelerometers compared to integrated Android Automotive systems.

AppWizard

May 26, 2025

Google I/O 2025: Android Auto’s Massive Update Gets Spotify Jam, Video App Support

Google I/O 2025 showcased a significant update for Android Auto, featuring deep integration with Spotify, including the new Spotify Jam for shared audio control. Google is also expanding support for video applications and enhancing the platform with Gemini AI for a more intuitive interface. Users will be able to enjoy a broader range of entertainment options, including collaborative playlists and video streaming, though video use will be limited to when the vehicle is stationary for safety reasons.

AppWizard

May 21, 2025

Android Auto to get video, browsing, and more weather apps support soon

Google is set to introduce video and browser applications to Android Auto, announced during Google I/O 2025. Video apps will only be operational when the vehicle is parked, and the connected smartphone must run Android 16. Additionally, there will be an increase in weather applications available on Android Auto, as developers can now publish these apps without beta restrictions, provided they meet Google's quality guidelines. Weather apps have been limited since early 2023, but the easing of developer requirements since December 2024 has led to a broader range of offerings. Over 250 million vehicles support Android Auto, with more than 50 car models featuring integrated Google software.

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 19, 2025

Android Automotive is Getting “Dozens” of New Apps and Games

Google is enhancing its Android Automotive platform with a significant app upgrade, introducing "dozens" of new applications designed for vehicles equipped with Google built-in. This initiative follows the car-ready mobile apps program launched last year. Users can explore car-compatible apps via a link to the Google Play Store. Highlighted applications include F1 TV, Farm Heroes Saga, Chess Online, and Kids Puzzles. The initial rollout will be available on select Polestar and Volvo models, with plans for expansion to additional makes and models in the future.