Google made a number of software and hardware announcements at Google I/O 2022. Android Auto was one of them. It will now be available to all users with a refreshed user interface, according to the company. Android Auto UI will now adapt to different car screen sizes and orientations with a default split-screen look after the update.
Google wants to make it easier for users to get directions, control their media, and have more functionality at their fingertips.
The split-screen display mode, according to Google, will allow Android Auto users to access features such as navigation, media player, and messages from a single screen. For the uninitiated, the current split-screen display mode is only available to a select group of users. Starting “this summer,” Android Auto will be available to all users.
It will also be able to adapt to any type of touchscreen, regardless of size or shape, in addition to the split-screen mode. Users will be able to access Google Assistant, notifications, and the apps library regardless of whether their car has a portrait or widescreen infotainment display.
Google’s voice assistant will now suggest quick responses for conversations that include sharing the user’s estimated arrival time with their contacts. Users of newer Volvo, Ford, and GMC models with Android Auto will gain new parking features such as the ability to watch videos on YouTube, Tubi, and Epix Now from the car display.
“As we work to add more capabilities to cars with Google built-in in the future,” according to a Google statement, “you’ll be able to not only browse the web directly from your car display, but also cast your own content from your phone to your car screen.”
