Google’s split-screen Android Auto redesign is rolling out now

After a long delay, Google’s Android Auto overhaul is finally here. This new version of Android Auto emphasizes the new split screen interface, which is smoother than the old Android Auto screen. This update was first shown at Google I / O, promised in the summer of 2022, but somehow it was pushed back to CES 2023. The car has many safety rules that must be followed.

Android Auto is an app on your phone that sends a dedicated interface (wireless or wired) to the compatible car’s dashboard. Unlike standard Android, which can be resized to any display size or shape, Android Auto was originally designed around the 16:9 horizontal screen ratio. It’s been updated over the years to be a little more flexible, but it’s always wanted to live in that horizontal configuration. and panoramic. However, not all car screens are wide, and for cars like the Volvo XC90, which had a large 4:3 iPad-style screen in the center stack, Android Auto was in a small window in the middle of the screen. Some manufacturers have given it a shaft letter or square. Apple’s CarPlay received the same flexibility update in iOS 13.

Unlike the old version, the split screen interface should be able to adapt to any rectangular screen. There are three components: the navigation bar, the main application interface, and a smaller sidebar section that can display one or two additional widgets. They can all be configured to match the shape of your screen. The navigation bar can be on the right side or at the bottom. The main app interface can be next to the sidebar section or stacked on top. The sidebar can be a long vertical bar or a thin horizontal bar. Some configurations will work!

Sidebar is the coolest new addition to Android Auto. It seems to work like the Android notification bar, but it’s important for cars. It can display commands for the currently playing media or media suggestions. It can go into split-screen mode, where the top item will show your most recent notification, which could be an incoming text message, an option to share your arrival time, or the weather.

Some of those options are Google Assistant’s new smart suggestions, which include “missed call reminders, quick access time sharing, and instant access to music or podcasts.” Onscreen shortcuts speed up replies to messages and call your favorite contacts. “

Google is also adding a searchable action bar for the Android Auto music and podcasts apps, which will automatically be applied to every Android Auto media app. Android Auto’s car security regulations mean that app developers can’t do things like design a user interface – Google has a pre-made media interface that Spotify, YouTube Music and all other media apps need – developers only offer streaming media, branded colors and a choice of a few Button options. This predefined interface is updated, so every app will have it automatically.

While the app update is being rolled out, it’s not clear if existing cars with larger screens need to be updated to support this new car setup.