During the 2026 Android Show, Google revealed that it’s bringing a full refresh to Android Auto with Material 3 Expressive as well as personal design touches, a widget and an edge-to-edge Google Maps experience that’s tailored to fit and look great on your car screen. Google says that this design is tailored to work on any dash, including ultrawide rectangles, circles or any unique shapes.
As far as widgets, Google is letting users pick which widgets work best for them, such as a weather overview, a garage door opener, or a shortcut to their favourite contacts.
And Google is making Maps more immersive with a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses and terrain. It will also highlight details such as lanes, traffic lights, and stop signs.
Google is also bringing 60fps HD YouTube support to certain cars later this year, starting with BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata and Volvo. And moreover, Android Auto is getting immersive, spatial sound with Dolby Atmos in supported apps and cars starting with BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata and Volvo.
Another interesting video update coming to Android Auto will prevent videos from abruptly stopping and instead will go into audio-only for apps that support background audio, so you don’t watch while you’re driving.
Gemini Intelligence is also coming to Android Auto, letting you speak naturally to your car, and comes with Intelligence features like automation and Magic Cue.
