Google has rolled out a new update to improve the Android Automotive experience, bringing a redesigned interface and support for new apps, including the Firefox browser. Drivers can browse the web with Firefox, Chrome, and Vivaldi, and stream shows on the Starz and Jio Hotstar apps or play Ludo King. These features only work while the car is parked.
A related change lets YouTube play full videos while parked. When the car is put into drive, it switches to audio-only background playback, which suits videos that work essentially as podcasts.
The updated Google Play Store sorts apps into categories, including apps for use while parked and apps for use while driving. It also highlights featured apps, new apps, and other helpful details. The store now offers more than 700 apps for Android Automotive, the operating system that runs on a car's computer rather than the similarly named Android Auto, which runs on a phone.
To support the platform's growth, Google has partnered with several car makers, including Mazda, Honda, BYD, Polestar, and Volvo, as well as media companies such as Audible, Pandora, Sirius XM, Amazon Music, Tune In, Gaana, and The Post. Cars with Google built in are made by 16 brands and span more than 100 models, including the new 2027 generation of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500 from GM, which has moved away from Android Auto but still uses Android Automotive. Earlier this year, Google announced it will open-source Android Automotive.
The updated Google Play experience for cars will begin rolling out over the coming weeks and will update automatically on the car's display.
Source: GSMArena · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing