Android Auto first appeared at the I/O conference in 2014, and entered some models and after-sales services the following year. Google said today that there are more than 150 million cars in the world, nearly every major automaker has Android Auto connectivity; and every car — from the oldest to those still on the assembly line — should be updated from today’s announcement benefit from.
The new Android Auto is expandable and can accommodate standard, vertical and ultrawide configurations. Along the bottom edge — or the left edge on ultrawide screens — is a bar with shortcuts to the app launcher, notifications, and Google Assistant on one end. On the other end, you’ll find signal strength,cell phoneStatus icons for battery level and time. The main area of the display is now divided into three sections, two of which are dedicated to displaying navigation and media controls — features that Google believes drivers prioritize while driving.
The content of the third part will change depending on the environment. Sometimes, it’s a simple clock. During the drive, the estimated time to destination may appear here, along with a link to share. When a message comes in, a preview will sit in this flexible space, waiting for user interaction or a reply. Users will also now be able to quickly reply to these incoming messages using Google Assistant AI-suggested quick replies — like “OK” or “On my way” — similar to those available on Pixel devices.
Of course, writing custom responses via voice input is still on the menu. Apps that support long-form content like audiobooks and podcasts will soon be able to display a progress bar in the media browser. Later this year, more video streaming apps, YouTube in the Android Auto Dashboard will add Chromecast support.
