The look and feel of Android Auto has changed a lot since we reviewed it in 2015, but now its biggest update is starting to roll out to all users, introducing a split-screen user interface that lets you see more things at the same time. Keeping the map on screen while adding an extra bar or two makes it more like Apple’s current approach to CarPlay, which Google says aims to create a “more personalized and easy-to-use driving experience.”
Where inspiration comes from, I’m grateful. Dubbed “Coolwalk” in testing last year or so, the new UI has been in public beta for months after its public announcement in the spring, and as a longtime Android Auto user, it’s been in my car. .
While Android Auto previously prioritized the media player or navigation by putting another option on the bottom status bar, you can now skip podcasts, still keep the Google Maps screen open, and even display it in the main window.
I was worried that the extra information would be distracting, but after trying it I don’t think it is. It’s common to see a two-pane setup – you can still only show one app if you want – and in my machine, it didn’t suffer from screen sharing. It also makes Google Assistant more useful in the car, as messages slide in as a third section in the corner, sometimes with a one-touch option to send a ready text response, or if you’re traveling, via it. WAYS TO SEND Easily send an estimated time of arrival in contact.
The launcher is still part of Android Auto, putting some of your most recently used apps at the bottom or side of the screen and quickly pulling them up when you don’t know if it’s a podcast or music day.
An upcoming feature for the latest Pixel and Samsung phones is the ability to make calls using WhatsApp in Android Auto.
Google didn’t provide details on when it would launch, but said CES 2023 attendees could test it out on a BMW i7 if they were on the show floor this week.
Post time: Jan-09-2023