in-car experience Archives

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Connecting your car beyond the dashboard

Modern vehicles are becoming Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs), where software enhances functionalities such as pre-heating and smartphone unlocking. This shift allows manufacturers to introduce new features through over-the-air updates. However, the transition faces challenges due to diverse software architectures among manufacturers, requiring significant investment in infrastructure. Android promotes open platforms, exemplified by Android Automotive OS (AAOS), which enables carmakers to create infotainment experiences while reducing costs and time to market. AAOS is being extended to AAOS SDV, providing an open infrastructure for non-safety vehicle components, allowing manufacturers to focus on unique customer experiences. Collaboration with companies like Renault Group and Qualcomm is ongoing, with plans to make AAOS SDV open-source later this year.

AppWizard

March 19, 2026

This hidden setting changed the way I use Android Auto — and I’m never going back

Android allows users to install applications from various sources, but accessing sideloaded apps on Android Auto is restricted to approved applications. There is a method to unlock Android Auto for a wider range of applications not officially endorsed for automotive use. The steps to unlock Android Auto include enabling development mode on the Android device, downloading necessary tools, enabling third-party application installation, and connecting the device to the vehicle to integrate the new apps.

AppWizard

December 22, 2025

Android Auto has a hidden menu, but so many of you had no idea it exists

Android Auto allows users to access hidden developer settings that enhance their driving experience by enabling third-party applications. Approximately 27.6% of nearly 5,000 surveyed users utilize these developer settings, with nearly 40% unaware of their existence. About 22.6% expressed interest in unlocking these settings, while just over 11% felt they had no need for them. The developer settings include options like disabling Wireless Android Auto and enabling support for apps from Unknown Sources. A separate poll showed that nearly half of 1,700 respondents use third-party apps for video playback, with notable apps like Fermata Auto and CarStream. Additionally, 50% of 3,459 respondents want official video playback support when parked, and 40% desire it for passengers while driving. Only 2% believe Android Auto should focus on other areas, and 7% wouldn’t use video playback at all.

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.