We all have those times when we’re sitting in a car that isn’t moving. Maybe you’re waiting in the school pick-up line or for your EV to charge, and you wish you could just kick back and watch something. Soon, that will become reality as video apps are making their way to Android Auto.
Android Auto’s focus has always been on handling navigation, calls, and mainly audio-only entertainment. The goal is to keep your eyes on the road and minimize distractions. But Google knows there are times when your car is parked, and you’ve got a few minutes to spare. That’s where “Parked Apps” come in. These are apps that are only accessible while parked, and they’ve previously been limited to games.
Google didn’t share a ton of information about its plans for video apps:
- Video apps will be supported on Android Auto, starting with phones running Android 16 on select compatible cars. If your app is already adaptive, enabling your app experience while parked only requires minimal steps to distribute to cars.
- Audio while driving for video apps: For cars with Google built-in, we’re working with OEMs to enable audio-only listening for video apps while driving.
For those moments of downtime, catching up on a show, watching a quick YouTube video, or even just having some background entertainment while you wait might be nice. The “audio-only listening for video apps” sounds like it could be a neat feature as well. I’ve definitely thought about making audio-only versions of my favorite movies to listen to while on long road trips.
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Adding Android Auto or CarPlay to Your Car Is Easier Than You Think
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay have been around for a while, but not all of us drive vehicles with the technology built in. Of course, you could install an aftermarket head unit yourself, but that can be intimidating. There’s actually a much easier way to do it—no wiring required.
Beyond video apps, Google is also talking about Gemini for Android Auto and cars with Google built-in. You’ll be able to ask Gemini to find you a coffee shop along your route, and then follow up with a question about its opening hours, all without fumbling for specific phrases or looking away from the road. You can even dictate messages and have Gemini remember your preferred language for specific contacts, making communication seamless and safe.
Car Key for Android is coming to an increasing number of vehicles, including upcoming models from Audi, Volvo, and Polestar. That’s one less thing to carry in your pocket. And for those moments when you want to quickly send something from your phone to your car’s screen, Quick Share is making its way to cars with Google built-in.
The video apps features were listed in the “Road Ahead” section of the blog post, which Google says we can look forward to seeing “more updates later this year.” There were no screenshots of how it might look provided.
Source: Android Developers
