Google Android Auto gets a big update – new interface, features, split screen mode; better screen support

Three years later the last major overhaul, Android Auto by Google will receive another major redesign in the summer (from June) in the United States. First introduced in 2014, Android Auto has gone through many iterations, and the company says it’s now available in over 150 million cars globally in virtually every car brand.

Revealed at Google I/O 2022, the latest version of Android Auto features a new user interface that adapts to different car screen sizes, something its predecessor was unable to do. This is an important improvement as it maximizes screen real estate and will see the user interface default to split-screen mode automatically scaling to widescreen or portrait format.

All the selection panels related to your most used features will be displayed in one place – a la Apple CarPlay – includes media playback, navigation and messaging. “We’ve found there are three key functions that drivers prioritize in their cars: navigation, communication, and communication,” Google said in its release.

There will also be a permanent panel for access to the app launcher, notifications, and the Google Assistant. In that regard, the company’s voice assistant will now make contextual recommendations to help you be more productive in the car.

Examples include suggested replies, sending messages, sharing arrival times with friends, or even playing suggested music. Plus, you can now quickly text and call your favorite contacts with a single tap, and even reply to messages by selecting a suggested reply on the screen.

In addition to Android Auto, Google also highlighted the improvements made to the Android Automotive Operating System (AAOS), which is the infotainment platform now built into Volvo models like the C40, XC40 and Polestar, among others – some car companies also commit apply AAOS.

New to AAOS is support for third-party video streaming apps like Tubi and Epix Now, giving users more options beyond YouTube to keep them entertained while their car is parked. Users will also be able to use web browsers and stream their own content from their phones when these features become available later this year.