Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution/Google
Google is now giving the finishing touches to a new Android Auto build, with the first beta shipping to testers as we speak.
Android Auto 11.3 is the next in the queue to receive the go-ahead for production devices, but for now, Google wants to thoroughly test the release before the rollout starts. Android Auto 11.3 beta is now live for users enrolled in the beta program, but anyone can give it a try by sideloading the APK on their devices.
The process is fast and straightforward, requesting a manual download of the APK installer. Once the file is stored on the Android device, users must initiate the installer by tapping the installer. The rest of the process comes down to steps detailed on the screen via a wizard, typically finalizing in a few seconds.
Most people considering installing a beta build on their devices are particularly interested in the changelog. However, Google sticks with an approach that doesn't make sense for users, as the company doesn't share updated changelogs unless the new updates include notable improvements.
As a result, it's safe to assume Android Auto 11.3 is mainly focused on improvements under the hood. I already installed the beta build on my smartphone but haven't noticed any significant change. Google focusing on subtle refinements isn't surprising, as the fast release pace doesn't allow the company to spend enough time finalizing new features.
However, it doesn't mean Google isn't working on significant changes for Android Auto in the short term. The company has already promised notable updates, including introducing artificial intelligence for handling communications.
Some users have already received an early version of the AI integration, being able to respond to get a summary of long messages or busy group conversations read by Google Assistant. Google Assistant can also display relevant answers, including sharing the ETA via Google Maps when a contact asks about the arrival time at a destination.
Android Auto will also get new capabilities for the essential apps, including Google Maps. The navigation application will show the parking location on the map. The feature has been available on mobile devices for many years, but it's now arriving on Android Auto to make it easier to find a destination. If the parking location is different from the navigation destination, users can mark it on the map and use Google Maps for step-by-step walking directions.
Android Auto 11.3 continues the rollout of a new Google Assistant animation spotted in previous updates, though the change isn't yet live for all users.
If you're interested in installing this beta build, remember that Android Auto 11.3 is currently in the pre-release stage, and using it as a daily driver isn't recommended due to an increased likelihood of bugs.
The process is fast and straightforward, requesting a manual download of the APK installer. Once the file is stored on the Android device, users must initiate the installer by tapping the installer. The rest of the process comes down to steps detailed on the screen via a wizard, typically finalizing in a few seconds.
Most people considering installing a beta build on their devices are particularly interested in the changelog. However, Google sticks with an approach that doesn't make sense for users, as the company doesn't share updated changelogs unless the new updates include notable improvements.
As a result, it's safe to assume Android Auto 11.3 is mainly focused on improvements under the hood. I already installed the beta build on my smartphone but haven't noticed any significant change. Google focusing on subtle refinements isn't surprising, as the fast release pace doesn't allow the company to spend enough time finalizing new features.
However, it doesn't mean Google isn't working on significant changes for Android Auto in the short term. The company has already promised notable updates, including introducing artificial intelligence for handling communications.
Some users have already received an early version of the AI integration, being able to respond to get a summary of long messages or busy group conversations read by Google Assistant. Google Assistant can also display relevant answers, including sharing the ETA via Google Maps when a contact asks about the arrival time at a destination.
Android Auto will also get new capabilities for the essential apps, including Google Maps. The navigation application will show the parking location on the map. The feature has been available on mobile devices for many years, but it's now arriving on Android Auto to make it easier to find a destination. If the parking location is different from the navigation destination, users can mark it on the map and use Google Maps for step-by-step walking directions.
Android Auto 11.3 continues the rollout of a new Google Assistant animation spotted in previous updates, though the change isn't yet live for all users.
If you're interested in installing this beta build, remember that Android Auto 11.3 is currently in the pre-release stage, and using it as a daily driver isn't recommended due to an increased likelihood of bugs.
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