What you need to know
- Google highlights an updated UI for Android Auto with new features like Google Assistant suggestions, WhatsApp calls, and media scrolling.
- Android Automotive is adding more detailed maps and media options like YouTube.
- Digital key sharing will soon be available for Samsung and Xiaomi smartphones.
At CES 2023, Google showed off several upgrades to its in-car experience, including Android Auto and Android Automotive.
With Android Auto, Google says the new Coolwalk UI, which was previewed for some beta testers, is finally rolling out to all users. As part of that rollout, Google also highlights several new features, such as smart suggestions from the Google Assistant that notify users of updates such as missed calls, arrival times, and more. Users can also get shortcuts to features like replying to messages and favorite contacts, so they can spend less time looking at the screen.
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Android Auto also has some extensions for media. In addition to the updated media card, users can now jump to their favorite parts of songs and podcasts with a new progress bar. Finally, Android Auto gains the ability to make WhatsApp calls from Pixel and Samsung phones.
When it comes to Android Automotive, Google greatly enhances navigation with new HD maps, showing roads in greater detail, including signs and street signs. The company says it will help improve safer driving and navigation for self-driving car systems and will be available first in the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3. More cars are expected to have access to the new Waze app.
Additionally, Android Automotive will soon get support for YouTube and other media, giving users a variety of ways to entertain themselves while the car is charging.
Finally, Google is expanding the ability to share digital keys. This was only available on Pixel and iPhone, but will soon be coming to Samsung devices as well. Xiaomi is also on board, and although exact availability hasn’t been indicated, its phones will soon be able to use and share keys.
