Google has announced a major Android Auto update that changes how the platform looks and works on vehicle screens.
The update brings a redesigned interface, better screen support, new widgets, Immersive Navigation in Google Maps, YouTube video playback, Dolby Atmos support, and deeper Gemini integration. The changes put Android Auto in closer competition with Apple CarPlay as automakers continue to rely more heavily on software inside modern vehicles.
Android Auto will now adapt to different display sizes and shapes, including unusual screens used by some automakers.
Google showed the system working on several types of vehicle displays, including the round screen used in Mini cars, the curved screen in a Lucid, and the trapezoid-shaped screen in a BMW. The new layout helps Android Auto use more of the available display area instead of leaving unused black borders.
The interface uses floating controls over the main view, giving drivers access to key functions while keeping the layout cleaner and easier to read.
Google is also adding interactive widgets to Android Auto. Drivers can pin widgets over Google Maps instead of switching away from navigation. These widgets can show favorite contacts, weather updates, calendar events, and smart home controls such as a garage door shortcut.
The number of widget rows depends on the size of the vehicle display. Navigation remains visible in the background, so drivers can view key information without losing their route.
Google Maps is getting a major visual upgrade inside Android Auto through a feature called Immersive Navigation.
The new view adds more detailed 3D buildings, road structures, terrain, lanes, traffic lights, and stop signs. Google says the added detail is designed to help drivers understand complex roads, turns, and highway merges more clearly.
Android Auto will also support video playback for the first time while a vehicle is parked.
Google said supported cars will be able to play YouTube videos in full HD at 60 frames per second later this year. The feature will start with supported vehicles from BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Skoda, Tata, and Volvo.
If the driver shifts from parked mode to drive, the video will disappear from the screen, but the audio can continue in the background when the app supports background audio. Google said this setup can be useful for video podcasts.
Android Auto will also add Dolby Atmos support in supported apps and cars, starting with BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Skoda, Tata, and Volvo. Spotify and YouTube Music will also receive visual updates for the new interface.
Google is bringing more Gemini features to Android Auto. Gemini Intelligence will help handle contextual tasks while driving. For example, if someone asks for the address of a meeting place, Magic Cue can search recent messages, Gmail, and Calendar, find the right address, and prepare a reply that the driver can send with one tap.
Gemini will also support voice-based actions such as placing a food order while the driver is on the road. Engadget reported that DoorDash is Google’s first partner for this feature.
Vehicles with Google built in will receive deeper AI features because the software can connect more directly with the car’s hardware.
Gemini will be able to answer vehicle-specific questions, such as whether a large TV box can fit inside the car based on that model’s cargo dimensions. Google-built vehicles will also get enhanced Immersive Navigation features in select cars, including live lane guidance using the front camera.
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