Android Auto to get new wavy progress bar for media playback: Here’s what’s changing

Android Auto is set to receive a small but noticeable interface change that affects one of the most frequently viewed elements during a drive: the media playback progress bar. According to recent findings, Google is testing a new wavy-style progress indicator for music and podcast apps.

What is changing in Android Auto
The current flat progress line used in Android Auto’s media player is expected to be replaced by a wavy, animated bar. The change has been spotted in the latest Android Auto builds, though it has not yet been enabled for users.
The new progress bar follows Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language, which is already visible across newer Android versions and Pixel devices. Instead of a straight, minimal line, the playback indicator appears thicker and curved, creating a more dynamic visual cue while a track or podcast is playing.

Why Google is making this update
While the update is cosmetic, it fits into Google’s broader effort to bring visual consistency across Android experiences. By aligning Android Auto’s interface with phone-side Android design elements, Google appears to be working toward a more unified ecosystem.
There is also a functional aspect. A thicker and more pronounced progress bar could make it easier to scrub through audio content while driving. Reduced precision when interacting with the screen may help limit the time a driver’s attention is diverted from the road.

Availability and rollout status
At present, the wavy progress bar is not live. It has been discovered through code references and interface assets in recent Android Auto versions. This suggests the feature is still under development and could be enabled through a future server-side update.
Google has not officially announced a release timeline, and there is no confirmation on whether users will be given an option to switch between the flat and wavy designs.