Google just made public the news that they are going to launch a major update to Android Auto for the first time in five whole years. According to Rod Lopez, product manager for Android Auto, owners of cars that have Android Auto support will start seeing the changes over the next few weeks. However, the smartphone version of Android Auto will not receive an update soon.
Lopez claims that the phone version will be updated sometime in the future when the company will also add the Assistant’s new driving mode. This sure sound promising. Here is a list of the Android Auto update’s changes and improvements.
Android Auto Update Rolled Out With Changes And Improvements
A Makeover
Android Auto will now have a brand-new design that majorly improves the experience, compared to the previous look. The design changes include a new navigation bar that makes it very easy to access apps, a new dark theme, and a screen-adapting UI.
Easier navigation
You now have the ability to configure your own navigation app to show up on your screen when you connect to Android Auto. If a route is already set up on your phone, it will show up in Android Auto by default.
Enhanced Assistant integration
Google Assistant-powred apps will have a small Assistant badge on their icons. You can tap it to find out more information about what information it brings.
Resume your activities
If you stop your audio when stopping the car, it will automatically pick up where you left off the next time you turn Android Auto on.
Notifications
The navigation bar now includes a new notification button that will display missed calls and messages. Also, if you long-press the button, it will start up Google Assistant, that will help you make calls, send messages or read your notifications via Android Auto.