Upcoming Android Auto Features Revealed
In a series of announcements and updates, Google has revealed plans to enhance Android Auto, its in-car infotainment system. Here's a summary of the upcoming features and timelines for various areas, based on current announcements and reports from Google as of July 2025:
## Gemini Integration
Google has officially announced that Gemini, its AI assistant, will replace Google Assistant across all Google platforms, including Android Auto. Gemini is set to launch with features like natural voice conversations, multitasking, and real-time language translation. Although the code for Gemini is already present in Android Auto, it has not yet been activated in the latest stable releases. According to Google, Gemini will launch "in the coming months," with a gradual activation as stability is prioritized.
## Media App Upgrades
Google is lifting some restrictions, allowing developers more customization and new functionalities. One of the changes coming to Android Auto media apps is Spotify's "Jam" feature, a collaborative music listening feature that is set to arrive "in the coming months." Additionally, more apps, including video apps, will be supported, especially when the car is in parked mode.
## Light Theme and Custom Themes
Google has announced a visual overhaul for Android Auto, including a Material 3 design with vibrant dark and light modes. The light theme, also known as the "Material redesign," has been shown off but has yet to be rolled out.
## Video Apps
Video playback is now being supported in Android Auto, but only when the car is parked. This feature is being rolled out with a focus on safety, as video is disabled while driving.
## Climate Controls, Local Media & Radio Control
Although climate controls are typically available in cars with Google built-in, updates for standalone Android Auto may focus on integration. No explicit new features have been announced for universal climate control in all cars. Local media and radio control remain standard features, but no new upgrades have been announced recently.
## Additional Calling Apps
Google continues to expand app categories, which could lead to more calling app options. However, no direct mention of new third-party calling apps has been made in recent announcements.
## Maps Alerts and Incident Reporting
No specific new features have been announced regarding Map alerts or incident reporting for Android Auto. Any significant changes are likely to be part of a Maps update rather than a standalone Android Auto feature.
In summary, Gemini AI and its conversational, multilingual features are the flagship upcoming updates for Android Auto, expected within the next several months. Media app upgrades, including Spotify Jam and more developer freedoms, are on the near horizon. New visual themes and video apps in parked mode are confirmed for upcoming releases. There are currently no new announcements for climate controls, local media/radio, calling apps, or Maps alerts/incident reporting beyond existing features. These updates reflect Google’s focus on AI integration and richer user experiences, while keeping safety and stability as top priorities.
[1] Google I/O 2025: Android Auto Announcements (google.com/io/2025/android-auto) [2] Android Auto Updates: What's New for 2025 (android.com/auto/whats-new)
Smartphones and gadgets users can anticipate the integration of Google's latest AI assistant, Gemini, into Android Auto, bringing natural voice conversations, multitasking, and real-time language translation. Moreover, Spotify's collaborative music listening feature, "Jam," is set to arrive on Android Auto media apps shortly.
