Google Android Auto Gets 3D Maps, Video Playback And Other Features
Android Auto is set for one of its biggest upgrades yet in 2026. Google has introduced new features including 3D Maps, Gemini integration and more on Android Auto. Cars that have built-in Google Integration, like the third-generation Renault Duster for example, will also get these features. These updates are aimed at enhancing the connected experience for users and align with Google’s focus on making journeys safe, interactive and entertaining. The updates will start reaching users with the Android 17 update.
Android Auto has a huge user base worldwide. Over 250 million cars are reportedly running the software. This acceptance is due to the intuitive, useful and practical nature of the software. It blends navigation, music and call controls seamlessly. Google’s Senior Director of Product and User Experience Guemmy Kim recently announced the big update and gave out key details.
Firstly, the update will give Android Auto a major redesign. It will improve personalisation and screen efficiency. Integration of AI-based features is another big change.
Let’s start with the redesign. The way Android Auto looks on different screens is about to change. The update will allow users to personalise the looks, use more widgets or even add their own widgets using text prompts.
Widgets essentially project the information that a user desires onto the screen. The latest update will also let you use the Android Auto interface to run the application that controls automated gates or garage doors. This will improve convenience significantly.
The digital interface can be customized by using Material 3 Expressive design. This ensures a familiar visual experience on the vehicle’s screen by borrowing fonts, wallpapers and animations from your phone.
More important is the update to Google Maps. It will start offering immersive 3D view of buildings, overpasses and terrain. This will make navigation easier and less-confusing, especially in urban areas with complex road systems. The new Google Maps app will also include important details like traffic lights, lanes and stop signs. The addition of these will help in improving the driver’s situational awareness.
The Maps app now has a more responsive design. It can adjust the information across any screen type. It should be noted here that modern cars come with different screen types- circle, rectangle, skewed rectangle, ultra-wide rectangle, and more.
The latest update will bring about ‘edge-to-edge Google Maps to your dash’. Previously, we have seen Android Auto struggling to adapt to certain aspect ratios and leaving unused, empty spaces on the screen. That is gone now! The experience has become more immersive and tailor-fit for various displays.
Next big change is the Gemini AI integration. With a deeper Gemini AI integration, Android Auto lets users do various tasks like brainstorming ideas, learning something or even getting their work done, while on the move. Android Auto will also start supporting Gemini Intelligence later this year. This model will have access to your apps, text messages, email etc and will act accordingly. This will be powered by Magic Cue, a feature that is now available on Google Pixel 10.
The new version of Android Auto will also support video playback. It will let users have access to apps like YouTube. Supported displays will be able to play 60 fps full HD videos.
The system will only allow video playback when the car is in park (P) mode. The moment you shift it to ‘Drive’ (D) mode, the video playback will stop. However, if you have a video application that allows background audio playback (read: YouTube Premium), the audio will continue playing, so that you can listen without distractions even as you drive.
Plus, it will also feature enhanced integration with Dolby Atmos. Many cars and SUVs now come with Dolby Atmos systems, even in the mass-market segment. This update will benefit those. And finally, the new Android Auto will support more games and video applications
Cars that have built-in Google interaction will also let users enjoy more features like live lane guidance. The system will source visual data from the car’s front camera for this. Google plans to roll out these updates to the Android Auto and Google built-in gradually throughout 2026.