Google starts rolling out Android Auto’s new interface

The goal for the new look of Android Auto is to “help you get on the road faster, show more useful information at a glance, and simplify common tasks while driving.” And you’ll finally be able to check if this is possible as Google rolls out the revamped version of Android Auto. This time, Android Auto will automatically continue playing your media when you turn on your vehicle. It’ll also immediately launch your navigation app of choice, which will let you tap on a suggested destination or issue a voice command. Android Auto’s navigation bar has been simplified so you can control apps with fewer taps. Dark mode is also now available with this version of Android Auto, fonts are easier to read, and you get more colorful accents for better visibility. With the new notification center, it is easier to manage calls, messages, and alerts as well. It has been optimized to show you more information on wider displays.

Source: Tech Radar

Apple Music tests out Android Auto integration

For the first time ever, Apple Music is integrating with Android’s car-based platform. Beta version 2.6.0 of the app (which you can find on Android Police) brings Apple Music integration into Android Auto. You have to make sure you have the latest version of Android Auto running, too. Once you have both, Apple Music will now become a top option for streaming in your car. You can stream radio or specific songs. We welcome this integration, especially since it brings options that you might not have access to at the moment. Right now, Apple Music doesn’t work with other Google products, so you still can’t integrate it with Google Home and Chromecast.

Source: The Verge

Android Auto now gives you access to your contact list

Google is bringing in more features to its Android Auto platform. The newest one is being able to access your entire contact list right from the in-car system. Before you’d need to use Google Assistant to get someone from your contact list or it’ll show you your starred contacts, recent calls, or let you dial a number. Now, you just need to head to the phone tab within Android Auto. Tap on the hamburger menu icon and select Contacts. If you’re not in motion, your access to the contact list is unrestricted. But if you’re driving you’ll only be able to tap down the list a few times. That said, this is a reminder to limit the amount of distractions you have when driving.

Source: 9to5Google

Android Auto can be used wirelessly, but only available to a select few

For those wishing to be untethered when they use Android Auto in their cars, your prayers have been answered… sort of. There are a few caveats. One is that it only works with select Pixel and Nexus devices as well as specific head units that are Wi-Fi-certified. The smartphones you need would be the Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Nexus 5, or the Nexus 6P. JVC and Kenwood have a few head units that are Wi-Fi-certified but a lot of these haven’t hit the market yet.

If you’re one of the select few that does have access to these devices, setup is pretty painless. You first have to connect your phone via USB to set the feature up. But once you’ve done that, you can connect your phone to your dash wirelessly the next time. Google says they do plan to support other phones in the future. So we’re keeping an eye out for that.

Source: Android Authority