Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution
Android Auto often feels like a work in progress, and at some level, this is an accurate assessment. The application often encounters problems even with the essential features, including voice commands, making it challenging for drivers to use it behind the wheel.
The good news is that Google has significantly accelerated the release pace, especially since introducing a beta program in 2022.
A new build is now available for download, bringing the app to version 10.8 in the production channel. Android Auto 10.8 beta went live in late October, and the same version made its way to the stable ring, allowing anyone to install it on their devices, even if they're not part of the testing program.
Android Auto 10.8 is now available for download with mysterious changes, as Google sticks with its frustrating approach of not providing users with release information. As a result, a changelog is not included, so the only way to tell what's new in Android Auto 10.8 is to install the update and search for changes thoroughly.
The Google Play Store rollout happens in stages, meaning some users will have to wait longer than others to receive the update. However, those who don't want to wait for Android Auto 10.8 to land on their device can update manually using the stand-alone APK installer.
Meanwhile, Google is already working on several big changes for Android Auto, and one of the most notable is the support for custom wallpapers.
Android Auto already allows users to configure a background, but the options are limited to a set of pre-loaded wallpapers bundled with the app. Users have been asking for support for custom wallpapers for a long time, but the feature is only available on rooted devices with unofficial solutions.
Google will enable new wallpaper features in a future Android Auto update, as the company wants to allow users to enable the same background as on their mobile devices. The phone background will, therefore, transfer to the infotainment screen when Android Auto loads, creating more consistency when switching devices. Eventually, migrating from the mobile device to the Android experience in the car could become more seamless.
References to this new option have recently been spotted in Android Auto updates, but Google has remained tight-lipped on everything related to its debut. The work on the feature continues behind Google's closed doors, so you shouldn't hold your breath for its introduction, as the company can always suspend its development if something doesn't work as expected.
Google is also working on a disconnect button for Android Auto wireless users, allowing them to launch the app using another phone in the car. Right now, the only option to disconnect the main device from the head unit is to turn off the Bluetooth support.
A new build is now available for download, bringing the app to version 10.8 in the production channel. Android Auto 10.8 beta went live in late October, and the same version made its way to the stable ring, allowing anyone to install it on their devices, even if they're not part of the testing program.
Android Auto 10.8 is now available for download with mysterious changes, as Google sticks with its frustrating approach of not providing users with release information. As a result, a changelog is not included, so the only way to tell what's new in Android Auto 10.8 is to install the update and search for changes thoroughly.
The Google Play Store rollout happens in stages, meaning some users will have to wait longer than others to receive the update. However, those who don't want to wait for Android Auto 10.8 to land on their device can update manually using the stand-alone APK installer.
Meanwhile, Google is already working on several big changes for Android Auto, and one of the most notable is the support for custom wallpapers.
Android Auto already allows users to configure a background, but the options are limited to a set of pre-loaded wallpapers bundled with the app. Users have been asking for support for custom wallpapers for a long time, but the feature is only available on rooted devices with unofficial solutions.
Google will enable new wallpaper features in a future Android Auto update, as the company wants to allow users to enable the same background as on their mobile devices. The phone background will, therefore, transfer to the infotainment screen when Android Auto loads, creating more consistency when switching devices. Eventually, migrating from the mobile device to the Android experience in the car could become more seamless.
References to this new option have recently been spotted in Android Auto updates, but Google has remained tight-lipped on everything related to its debut. The work on the feature continues behind Google's closed doors, so you shouldn't hold your breath for its introduction, as the company can always suspend its development if something doesn't work as expected.
Google is also working on a disconnect button for Android Auto wireless users, allowing them to launch the app using another phone in the car. Right now, the only option to disconnect the main device from the head unit is to turn off the Bluetooth support.
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