parked

BetaBeacon
May 29, 2025
New functionality is coming to Android Auto, including video playback and web browsing, but these features will only be accessible when the car is parked. Video playback will only work on supported apps and compatible cars, and the user's phone needs to be running Android 16. Game play support is available for beta testers, but it is unclear when these features will be available to the general public. Vehicles with Android Automotive OS already have access to video playback, with audio-only playback while driving coming soon. Google Gemini, a voice-activated AI search assistant, will replace Google Assistant in the coming months. Weather apps are now approved for Android Auto.
AppWizard
May 28, 2025
Google is enhancing the Android Auto experience by integrating its Gemini technology and introducing new car app templates for developers. The updated Spotify app will feature "Spotify Jam," allowing passengers to contribute to the car's playlist and control audio output. Users can activate the Jam feature by pressing a button and joining via a QR code. The updated Spotify app is expected to roll out in the coming months, with Amazon Music and YouTube Music also set to adopt the new templates. Video applications will soon support an audio-only mode for listening while driving, and Quick Share will enable content sharing between smartphones and vehicles. Google plans to implement passkeys and credential manager APIs for security enhancements and will enable video and web browser apps on older Android Auto platforms.
AppWizard
May 28, 2025
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 27, 2025
Google is enhancing Android Auto by introducing new control options and features, including updates for Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube Music. At the Google I/O 2025 event, Google announced plans to expand the app ecosystem, integrating video content and web browsing capabilities into Android Auto. A new feature, Spotify Jam, will allow collaborative listening sessions, and a video-to-audio feature will enable users to watch content while parked and switch to audio playback while driving. Google is also revisiting the button layout for media controls, which may lead to varying layouts across applications.
AppWizard
May 26, 2025
Google is introducing a feature for Android Automotive that allows users to switch seamlessly between video and audio modes while driving. Currently, video apps on Android Automotive can only be used when the vehicle is parked, but this new functionality will enable audio playback from video apps while the vehicle is in motion. This feature is available through an early access program for vehicles running Android 14 and above, and app developers must integrate it into their applications. Additionally, Google plans to extend video app support to Android Auto, which may include similar audio functionality.
AppWizard
May 26, 2025
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 25, 2025
Google introduced enhancements for Android Auto, including the Gemini assistant and a revamped Spotify app featuring Spotify Jam, which allows users to collaboratively control playlists. Users can join by tapping a "Jam" icon and scanning a QR code. Quick Share integration will enable adding stops to Google Maps routes, and passkey support is forthcoming. A new light mode theme is in development, and web browsers and video apps will soon be available, limited to use when parked. The browser feature is in beta for vehicles with Google built-in, while weather app support has transitioned out of beta.
AppWizard
May 21, 2025
Google has announced that video and browser applications will soon be available on Android Auto, enhancing the platform for users. Video apps will initially be accessible for devices running Android 16 in select compatible vehicles, but only when the vehicle is parked. Browser applications are still in beta and details are limited, with a promise that they are "coming soon."
AppWizard
May 21, 2025
Android Auto is enhancing its app ecosystem by allowing developers to publish weather apps that provide localized information, now that these apps have moved out of beta. Google has also introduced beta support for games and plans to add browser and video apps soon. Video apps will be available for devices running Android 16 in compatible vehicles, but playback will only be allowed when parked. Additionally, an audio-only mode for video apps will enable users to listen to content while driving.
BetaBeacon
May 21, 2025
Google introduced major updates to Android Auto and Android Automotive OS at Google I/O 2025, signaling a push into the connected car space. Gemini AI is making its in-car debut, offering natural voice controls and contextual awareness. Navigation apps can integrate Gemini for voice-driven navigation and search. App categories are expanding across platforms, with weather apps out of beta, games entering beta, and video apps on the roadmap. Google is providing new tools and templates for developers to streamline car app development. The roadmap includes features like audio-only playback for video apps while driving and Quick Share between phone and car. The Android-powered car is becoming a standard, inviting developers to build innovative experiences beyond navigation and playlists.
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