Android Auto Gets Major Upgrade: Video Playback, Web Browsing, and Games Coming Soon

Big changes are on the horizon for Android Auto, the popular in-car smartphone mirroring system that’s available in nearly every new car on sale today. In a major step forward for in-car tech, Google has confirmed that video playback, web browsing, and even game support are all “coming soon” to Android Auto—ushering in a whole new level of connectivity, convenience, and entertainment for drivers.

Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming features, how they’ll work, and what’s required to take advantage of them.

A New Era for In-Car Entertainment

Since their inception, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have focused on safety-first functionality—primarily offering navigation, music streaming, voice calls, and messaging support. But now, Google is expanding Android Auto’s capabilities with features that users have been requesting for years.

At its recent I/O developer conference, Google announced that video playback and web browsing will be coming soon to Android Auto. These features have long been available in some premium infotainment systems, but this update will bring them to the masses—with key safety restrictions in place.

Key Details:

• Video playback and web browsing will only be available while the vehicle is parked
• Only supported apps and compatible cars will be able to access video features
• A smartphone running Android 16 (launching June 3) is required
• Rollout will start with Google’s own devices, with other brands following over time

Game Support Already Rolling Out

While video and web browsing are still pending general release, game support is already live for Android Auto beta testers. This allows users to enjoy casual in-car games during downtime, such as while waiting for a charge or parked at a rest stop. Though details on the full game lineup are still scarce, this move mirrors functionality already seen in Tesla’s infotainment systems.

What About Android Automotive?

Vehicles equipped with Android Automotive OS—also known as Google Built-In—already offer access to video playback and web browsing features. Unlike Android Auto, Android Automotive runs directly on the vehicle’s native hardware, rather than relying on smartphone mirroring.

Currently:

• Video playback is available while parked
• Web browsing is in beta testing
• Audio-only streaming while driving is expected to launch soon

These systems are typically found in newer models from brands like Volvo, Polestar, Renault, and General Motors, with more manufacturers set to adopt Google’s automotive platform in the near future.

Say Hello to Google Gemini

In a major shift, Google Gemini—the next-gen voice assistant powered by artificial intelligence—will soon replace Google Assistant across both Android Auto and Android Automotive. Expected to arrive in the coming months, Gemini promises:

• More natural voice interaction
• The ability to pull context from apps like Gmail, Calendar, Spotify, and more
• Smarter, more intuitive responses thanks to advanced generative AI

Gemini’s arrival marks a turning point for voice control in vehicles, turning infotainment systems into intelligent co-pilots capable of understanding more complex requests and personal preferences.

New Apps Incoming: Weather Now Supported

To further enhance daily driving, Google has added weather to the list of supported app categories for Android Auto. This means you’ll soon see your favourite weather apps in the Android Auto app drawer—once developers enable support. No more fumbling with your phone or switching between apps to check the forecast before a road trip or morning commute.

What This Means for Drivers

The expansion of Android Auto’s functionality signals a big win for drivers who want more from their in-car tech. Whether you’re streaming a video while parked, browsing the web, playing games, or asking Gemini to summarise your emails, the future of driving is becoming more connected and personalised than ever before.

Just remember, safety comes first—all entertainment features are locked while driving to ensure that your eyes stay on the road and hands remain on the wheel.

Final Thoughts

With Android 16 on the horizon and a host of exciting new features on the way, Android Auto is evolving into a fully fledged digital hub for your vehicle. From smarter voice control to streaming and gaming, the in-car experience is about to become more dynamic than ever.

Stay tuned for official release dates and compatibility updates as Google rolls out these features. And if you’re looking for a vehicle equipped with Android Auto or Android Automotive, our team at Tynan Motors can help you find the perfect model to match your tech-savvy lifestyle.

Tynan Motors – Driving Innovation, Every Day.