Google seems to be hard at work redesigning its in-vehicle system.
During Google I / O 2022, the Mountain View company announced that it was working on a new interface for Android Auto, but without showing any visuals.
Google has been preparing a major update for Android Auto for several months
Google has however deployed an update to Android Auto on compatible devices, but no redesign had been seen with this update of its system. The latter prepares more for the arrival of Android Auto 8 in a few weeks.
One user, however, managed to activate the new interface by rooting his smartphone and was able to share some snapshots of the new presentation of applications on the connected screen of his vehicle.
Indeed, Google Maps and Spotify have already been updated to adapt to this new display, dubbed “Coolwalk” internally, once it is officially available for all users.
Resizable apps for more on-screen controls and information
According to the published photos, we can see an interface close to what Apple can offer with its CarPlay system. It is thus now possible to display two or three applications on the home screen, in order to obtain the maximum of information and controls in the same place.
Android Auto, however, would go further in terms of customization. Where CarPlay uses an imposed template, Google will allow users to modify the size of the applications displayed as they see fit. Just grab the bottom corner of a window to resize it. So in this example, Spotify may take up more space to show playback controls or recently played playlists.
In any case, the navigation remains in the foreground and Google Maps always takes up most of the display to maintain good readability of the maps and direction indications.
The user behind the photos also explains in his post that a blockage is at work to prevent the display of this new interface. The company would therefore be bringing the final touches to its new presentation, before deploying it to all motorists.
For its part, Apple is also preparing a major overhaul of its CarPlay interface and is working with some car manufacturers to use all vehicle screens, including the dashboard.
Source : Android Police
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