Android Auto might have received a bit of bad press over the last few months, but work is being done behind the scenes to try and make improvements. Google has been working hard to try and provide a better user experience, with improvements being made across multiple fronts. One of the most obvious changes being made includes adding new app categories, alongside other numerous exciting capabilities.
New Apps on Android Auto
Google is unlocking a range of new app categories, including video apps. This means that car owners will finally be able to use YouTube when driving. If you have been using Android Auto up until now, you’ll know that YouTube is one of the biggest apps not available.
Google is also working to bring new games to the system. With the addition of Chrome browsing, this could lead to some interesting developments. Volvo and Polestar vehicles are welcoming the internet browser first, which makes it possible for people to play popular games like Temple Tumble Megaways and Primal Megaways on the go. As games like this are already catered to mobile users, with free spin features and a clean interface, it’s going to be interesting to see if this new development is going to pave the way for games outside the app store.
Even though Google has been somewhat tight-lipped about their efforts regarding Android Auto, they have made it known that the Communications category is one area that they want to be putting the most effort into. They aim to add a calling experience, along with the option to view messaging history.
The New Features
Google hasn’t detailed how these features are going to work, but it is assumed that the messaging history option will give you the chance to continue where you last left off before you get into the car. Device synchronisation would be welcome, with more messaging apps hopefully being added. VoIP apps are also going to be explored.
If you have used Android Automotive before, then you probably know that the video category is also very limited. Amazon, YouTube, and other video-based apps have a safety feature that can only be used when the car is parked. Vivaldi for Android Automotive OS developers are hopeful that their browser will give users the chance to navigate the web from within the Android Auto display. Browsing again will only be permitted when the vehicle is immobile. When the car is on the move, browsing will be automatically disabled.
Any apps that are going to be released are going to be based on templates that have been developed by Google specifically, to ensure that they are going to run seamlessly within the vehicle. The templates they intend to use are also going to ensure consistency across the apps. This also ensures that any limitations are consistent, so people don’t become frustrated when moving from app to app, during their time on the road.
What Next?
Overall, it seems that Android Auto is here to stay, and these latest developments show that there’s certainly a demand for certain features. It’s an exciting time for the tech industry, and with Android Auto potentially hitting the market soon, it’s going to be interesting to see what happens next.
