Last year, we saw how Apple is expanding smartphone integration beyond infotainment screens with CarPlay Ultra. Now, it’s Google’s turn to share what it has revamped with Android Auto.

Google calls it the next-generation Android Auto, which promises a better user experience, premium entertainment, immersive navigation, and a more helpful Gemini AI with deeper integration. 

The update brings a full refresh brought by the Material 3 Expressive Design with new fonts, widgets, wallpapers, and smoother animations. But like the operating systems of Chinese automakers and BMW with its iDrive, the biggest change is integrating Google Maps as the main background for the screen.

Furthermore, Android Auto can now adapt to different screen shapes and sizes. This means, regardless if you have a portrait, landscape, or even a circular-oriented layout for your infotainment, Android Auto will fill out the entirety of the screen with edge-to-edge Google Maps. 

Speaking of Google Maps, the Immersive Navigation feature is also part of the Android Auto update. This means instead of a top-oriented 2D view of your route, you get a 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses, and terrain. It highlights critical details such as lanes, traffic lights, and stop signs to help you navigate tricky turns and merge through routes better.

It’s even better for cars with Google built in, as the Immersive Navigation can work with the supported vehicle’s front-facing camera, providing live lane guidance to understand what lane you’re in, and advise you in real time as you change lanes or exit.

Google has also enabled the YouTube app to stream videos in 60 FPS full HD with Android Auto when the vehicle is stationary and shifted to P or Park. When you switch gears, however, the videos won’t abruptly stop. Instead, it will safely and seamlessly transition to audio-only in apps that support background audio. This is perfect if you want to continue listening to video podcasts or live performances of your favorite artists.

On the audio side, Dolby Atmos is also stepping in to provide a better sound experience for supported cars and apps.

Google has also expanded Gemini AI’s abilities in Android Auto. Aside from brainstorming ideas and learning something new while driving, Gemini Intelligence can also get things done on your behalf, such as reply to emails automatically using context from notifications, and even order your favorite food.

Lastly, cars with Google built in also get exclusive features for Gemini, as the system could identify vehicle errors, or if your luggage will fit inside the cargo area.

Google says these updates to Android Auto will be rolled out throughout the year as part of the app, and occasionally in the overall phone OS updates.