Photo: Google
Less than two months ago, Google announced its prized Android Auto systems for cars will be getting an upgrade sometime this summer. Come the end of June, the newest version of the system has begun its rollout.
The newest interpretation of the Android Auto is update 4.4 and, according to various sources, it is already available for download in some parts of the UK. In most parts of the world though the new version is not yet on the table, and Google did not say when full rollout will begin.
So, what are the changes?
According to Softpedia, the main differences are a new navigation bar which adapts to running apps, displaying for instance buttons for media playback, navigation, and calls.
“With the new navigation bar, you'll be able to easily control your apps with one tap. Get turn-by-turn directions, rewind your podcast or take incoming call all on the same screen,” Google said according to the source.
The user interface is fresh as well, showing a smaller status bar, and a notification center is now available for displaying call or message history.
The Android Auto app is used to mirror the features of the Android device of the driver onto the car’s in-dash infotainment screen. The app was launched by Google four years ago, sharing the market with its main rival, Apple CarPlay.
In May 2019, the app was available for drivers in 36 countries, covering the both of the Americas, a good portion of Europe and Asia, and also India and Australia.
Currently, Android Auto supports most of the app Google is hosting in its app store, including Waze, Facebook or Telegram.
The first carmaker to have offered Android Auto compatibility in 2015 was Hyundai, on that year’s Sonata model. Now the trend has expanded so greatly that there is virtually no new car launched without the feature.
So, what are the changes?
According to Softpedia, the main differences are a new navigation bar which adapts to running apps, displaying for instance buttons for media playback, navigation, and calls.
“With the new navigation bar, you'll be able to easily control your apps with one tap. Get turn-by-turn directions, rewind your podcast or take incoming call all on the same screen,” Google said according to the source.
The user interface is fresh as well, showing a smaller status bar, and a notification center is now available for displaying call or message history.
The Android Auto app is used to mirror the features of the Android device of the driver onto the car’s in-dash infotainment screen. The app was launched by Google four years ago, sharing the market with its main rival, Apple CarPlay.
In May 2019, the app was available for drivers in 36 countries, covering the both of the Americas, a good portion of Europe and Asia, and also India and Australia.
Currently, Android Auto supports most of the app Google is hosting in its app store, including Waze, Facebook or Telegram.
The first carmaker to have offered Android Auto compatibility in 2015 was Hyundai, on that year’s Sonata model. Now the trend has expanded so greatly that there is virtually no new car launched without the feature.
Google News