Google continues to update Android Auto at a steady pace, but for many users, meaningful new features often feel slow to arrive. While bug fixes and under-the-hood improvements are frequent, visible additions tend to roll out gradually and sometimes without clear communication. That said, code discoveries, official announcements, and early previews now give a clearer picture of what is coming next for Android Auto.
One of the most significant changes on the roadmap is the transition from Google Assistant to Gemini. Google has officially confirmed that Gemini will replace Google Assistant on Android Auto, with the rollout expected to take place over the coming months. The company announced this move in November 2025, signalling a major shift in how voice interactions will work in cars. Gemini on Android Auto is expected to support features such as automatic translation and Gemini Live, which enables more conversational, back-and-forth interactions. While signs of Gemini integration have appeared in the code and early previews, it has not yet reached most users.
Another feature that has sparked curiosity is Cast support. Recent Android Auto versions contain hints that Google may eventually allow content casting directly to the car’s display. Development activity around this feature has been minimal so far, but the idea itself is not far-fetched, as Android Automotive already supports Cast in certain implementations. Whether this will actually make it to Android Auto, and in what form, remains uncertain.
Widgets are also on Google’s radar. Inspired in part by Apple’s CarPlay, Android Auto appears to be experimenting with app widgets on the home screen. Early development builds from October 2025 revealed the ability to pull widgets from apps installed on the connected phone. However, many of these widgets were either non-functional or visually messy, suggesting the feature is still far from ready. This is one area where early visibility does not necessarily mean an imminent launch.
The long-awaited light theme for Android Auto may finally be nearing release. First spotted in 2023, the light theme would exist alongside the current dark interface and apply across the main system UI as well as supported apps. Recent manually enabled previews suggest the theme is largely complete. Despite being shown officially at Google I/O, there is still no confirmed rollout timeline. References in Android Auto 14.7 show that users will eventually be able to switch between themes, but the feature remains inactive for now.
Video apps, climate control, and more
Google has also confirmed that video apps are coming to Android Auto, describing the rollout timeline simply as “soon.” Based on Google’s past definitions, that could mean anything from months to much longer. Video apps are expected to launch through a beta or pilot phase and will only function while the vehicle is parked. This restriction aligns with safety guidelines, but it also limits how useful the feature will be for many drivers.
Another area under development is climate control integration. Google has been building support for climate controls within Android Auto, with buttons recently enabled to preview the interface. The bigger question here is compatibility. Android Auto traditionally does not have deep access to vehicle systems, and climate control would require significant integration with the car’s hardware. Whether existing vehicles can support this remains unclear.
Local media and radio controls are also in the works. Since mid-2024, Google has been laying the groundwork for controlling FM and AM radio stations and accessing local media directly from Android Auto. Icons and references to these features exist in the app, but nothing functional has surfaced yet.
Beyond that, Google appears to be preparing support for more calling apps. Code references suggest the addition of external dialer apps, though details are extremely limited and no timeline has been shared. Similarly, new controls for Maps Alerts are being developed, potentially allowing users to manage or tone down incident and hazard notifications from Google Maps.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
