Google recently announced a major update for Android Auto. The headline news is that drivers can soon watch YouTube videos at 60fps in full HD. The audio plays through the car speakers, though obviously, this only works when the car is parked.
The moment you drive off, the video switches to an audio-only mode; however, this is only available for YouTube Premium users, so those on the free tier are out of luck.
Initially, this feature will be available for brands including BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Skoda, Tata, and Volvo.
Beyond entertainment, the update allows Google Maps to run edge-to-edge on all screen shapes. Previously, unconventional displays like the circular screens in MINIs forced the interface into a square box.
This is now fixed, alongside a visual overhaul using the “Material 3 Expressive” design, which introduces smartphone-style widgets and revised interfaces for apps like Spotify and YouTube Music.
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The update also bakes Gemini AI directly into the system. It can assist with tasks like ordering takeaway whilst you are stuck in traffic or using “Magic Cue” to find answers in your emails to reply to texts with a single tap. Additionally, Google is integrating spatial sound using Dolby Atmos for cars with supported hardware.
For vehicles with Google built-in, the integration goes even deeper. These systems will soon support native video and game apps, alongside Zoom for those who truly cannot escape the office. Gemini will also answer vehicle-specific questions, such as identifying a mysterious dashboard light or calculating if that new TV will actually fit in your boot.
In eligible cars, ‘Immersive Navigation’ will now use the vehicle’s front-facing camera to provide live lane guidance. The system will analyse the road in real time to tell you exactly which lane you are in and advise you on when to exit, effectively turning your car into a very expensive driving instructor.
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