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Google makes it easier to find apps and listen to YouTube in your car
AppWizard
October 14, 2026

Google makes it easier to find apps and listen to YouTube in your car

Google is enhancing the in-car experience for vehicles equipped with Google built-in by introducing a redesigned Play Store and an upgraded YouTube feature. The new Play Store will simplify app discovery, showcasing featured selections, new releases, and curated collections for users. YouTube will automatically switch to audio-only mode when the vehicle is in motion, allowing drivers to listen to content without visual distractions. This update will be available to eligible vehicles automatically. YouTube Premium subscribers will benefit from the audio playback feature, which is separate from Android Auto.
Android Automotive vs. Google Built-in: How Google’s Two Car Platforms Actually Differ
BetaBeacon
October 12, 2026

Android Automotive vs. Google Built-in: How Google’s Two Car Platforms Actually Differ

- Google Built-in is a package of Google apps that carmakers license and add on top of their Android Automotive systems, providing access to Google Maps, the Google Play Store, and Gemini. - Gemini is officially taking over from Google Assistant as the voice assistant across 16 car brands, offering features such as real-time traffic updates, EV-specific routing, smart navigation, and the ability to check email, build playlists, and order dinner. - Not every automaker wants to use Google's assistant, with some like Ford and Rivian investing in building their own AI assistants. - Some drivers are skeptical of native systems like Google Built-in, believing that the motive behind them is new revenue rather than a better driving experience.
6 Android Auto Features You Should Use On Your Next Road Trip
AppWizard
October 2, 2026

6 Android Auto Features You Should Use On Your Next Road Trip

Android Auto enhances the driving experience with features that prioritize safety and convenience, including a split-screen option for accessing multiple apps simultaneously. Users can customize their Android Auto settings on their mobile devices. Key features include: - Google Maps' offline maps: Users can download offline maps for areas with unreliable cellular service by selecting "Offline maps" in the app and choosing the desired route section. - Multi-stop planning: Google Maps allows users to add up to nine stops along their route by selecting "Edit stops" after entering a destination. - Trip sharing: Users can share their trip progress with contacts through the "Share trip progress" option in Google Maps. - Audio streaming downloads: Users can download content from music and audiobook services for offline access, with specific features varying by service and subscription level. - Customization of Android Auto features: Users can adjust settings for phone accessibility, media autoplay, and app launcher preferences. - Google Gemini integration: Users can enable Google Gemini for voice commands, allowing for navigation, media playback, and interaction without unlocking the phone. Gemini can also provide weather updates and engage in conversations during drives.
What's The Difference Between Android Auto And Android Automotive OS?
AppWizard
September 30, 2026

What’s The Difference Between Android Auto And Android Automotive OS?

CarPlay and Android Auto have transformed in-car infotainment by utilizing smartphones. Android Auto was launched by Google in 2015, allowing users to connect Android devices to their vehicle displays. It has evolved to support more applications, compatibility with major automotive brands, and wireless connectivity, focusing on minimizing distractions for drivers. Android Automotive is an operating system that runs directly on vehicle hardware, eliminating the need for a smartphone connection. It is an open-source platform that car manufacturers can customize. Automakers can license Google Automotive Services, which includes Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant, but are not required to do so. Android Automotive OS allows for direct communication with vehicle systems, enhancing user experience by enabling features like voice-activated climate control. Vehicles with Android Automotive OS are marketed as having "Google built-in" and include brands such as Polestar, Volvo, Chevrolet, and Ford. Android Automotive can receive over-the-air updates, while Android Auto is compatible with over 500 car models and requires an Android device running version 9.0 or higher. Android Auto allows seamless transfer of apps and media from smartphones and benefits from automatic updates.
Android Auto games are no longer in beta as Google opens publishing
BetaBeacon
September 24, 2026

Android Auto games are no longer in beta as Google opens publishing

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.
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