NEWS TECHNOLOGIE

(Image: Google) Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have changed the way people experience their vehicles’ infotainment systems. Since they were introduced in the mid-2010s, both have allowed drivers to cast their smartphones’ navigation apps, weather widgets, music interfaces, and (controversially) even text messages to their cars’ touch screens. But unlike Apple CarPlay, which tends to get a refresh with each major iOS update, Android Auto has remained relatively stale over the years.

Google announced last week at CES 2023 that it’s finally giving Android Auto a rolling revamp. The update, the first phase of which is available now to all Android Auto users, introduces an updated interface and a handful of new features.

Users will immediately notice that Google Maps has shifted closer to the driver’s side of the vehicle, making it easier to manage navigation with fewer glances off the road. A more variable split-screen arrangement (which has been in beta seemingly forever) makes Android Auto suitable for vehicles of various screen sizes. Cars with Google built-in, like the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3, will feature Google’s new HD map: a more detailed version of the default map that includes road barriers, lane markers, signs, and other information useful for assisted and autonomous driving tech. Google built-in will also allow drivers to use Waze in place of Google Maps.

Google has also added a number of new interactive options to Android Auto. Quicker access to music and podcasts allows users to quickly select an entertainment option, while a seekable progress bar helps users find a specific point within a track or episode. (The folks at Google must know that using the forward and back buttons on your steering wheel is rarely worth the frustration.) Google Assistant will meanwhile use situational awareness to remind users of their missed calls or prompt ETA sharing while on the road. When it comes to those missed calls, Google says users with Pixel and Samsung smartphones will soon enjoy WhatsApp compatibility—though this particular update will arrive later in the rollout.

Android Auto’s refresh introduces additional digital car key options as well. While Pixel and iPhone users have been able to share their digital car keys for a while now, this capability will soon expand to include Samsung and Xiaomi users. Digital car key sharing is only available to BMW drivers, but Google says more automakers will incorporate the technology soon.

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