Following the Google I/O developer conference, Android Auto is set to receive more than just enhancements to Google’s Gemini assistant. The company has revealed a variety of updates headed for the infotainment system, including a revamped Spotify app, the addition of a light mode, and support for web browsers and video applications.
Starting with Spotify, Google showcased a new video last week detailing an overhaul of the Spotify app for Android Auto, utilizing fresh media app templates available to developers. A key addition is Spotify Jam, which enables users to share control of a music source from their devices.
For vehicles equipped with Android Auto, any Spotify user can join by tapping a new “Jam” icon on the car’s touchscreen and scanning a QR code to contribute to the playlist. Unlike Apple Music’s SharePlay feature, which restricts participation to Apple device users, Spotify Jam allows for broader inclusivity. This feature is expected to be available “in the coming months,” according to the company.
Additionally, in the aforementioned video, Google announced that cars with Google built-in will soon support Quick Share, enabling users to add stops to live Google Maps directions. The company also plans to implement passkey support for its infotainment system.
Through a Google Figma kit designed for Android Auto app UI prototyping, we got a glimpse of a new light mode theme currently being developed. While Google did not explicitly state that a light mode will roll out in its blog post summarizing updates for Android Auto, 9to5Google points out that this UI option has been under development for several years.
Also briefly mentioned by Google is the forthcoming introduction of web browsers and video applications to Android Auto. These app categories are expected to be available “soon,” while gaming applications are already accessible in beta. Notably, Google mentioned that these features will only function when the vehicle is parked. Currently, the browser feature is available in beta for vehicles with Google built-in, and video apps are already functional on that version of the infotainment system. Additionally, support for weather apps has officially moved out of beta.
