Android's auto feature is receiving a complimentary update, allowing for personalization of its interface.
Android Auto, a popular choice for drivers seeking a seamless bridge between their car and phone, has taken a significant step forward with the introduction of the 14.9 beta. This update brings full support for Material You color theming, a feature that dynamically pulls accent colours directly from the user's phone wallpaper [1][2][3][5].
This means that the Android Auto interface, including settings menus, buttons, notifications, and even subtle background tints, now matches the colour scheme of the phone's wallpaper. The interface updates automatically when the wallpaper changes, creating a consistent and personalised aesthetic between the phone and the car's display [1][2][3][5].
At present, the feature is primarily available in the Android Auto 14.9 beta build. Some users have reported seeing the Material You theming in the stable version, suggesting a potential gradual or server-side rollout beyond the beta channel [2][3][5]. The feature has been mainly tested with Pixel devices, where it responds immediately to wallpaper changes, though manual theme changes are less consistently reflected [2][3][5].
The update is not just cosmetic. Android Auto may also integrate more deeply into a car's existing systems, including radio hardware and USB drives. The visuals in the car, particularly around the settings menu and notifications, will be affected by the colour changes [4].
In addition, Android Auto is expected to expand its entertainment options when cars are parked, and may support climate control on some vehicles. However, no specific timeline for the release of the bigger changes in Android Auto has been provided [6].
It's worth noting that the new Android Auto update does not currently offer independent customisation options. The changes apply only to Material You themes derived from wallpapers [7].
In contrast, Apple CarPlay, while gaining more control over a car's screens, does not match the level of personalisation offered by the new Android Auto update [8]. The Gemini experience, expected to replace Google Assistant in a future Android Auto update, could further enhance this personalisation [9].
As we move forward, it's clear that Android Auto is seeking out deeper integration with a car's existing systems, aiming to provide a more seamless and personalised driving experience [10]. The adoption of phone wallpapers for personalisation in Android Auto was introduced at the end of 2023 [11].
Remember, the roll-out of the new Android Auto feature is not yet complete for all users. Some Android users have reported seeing the new Android Auto update outside of the beta, indicating a broader release may be on the horizon [2].
[1] https://9to5google.com/2023/12/19/android-auto-14-9-beta-material-you-wallpaper-theming/ [2] https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/12/19/android-auto-14-9-beta-adds-material-you-color-theming-from-your-phone-wallpaper/ [3] https://www.xda-developers.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-material-you-wallpaper-theming/ [4] https://www.androidcentral.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-adds-material-you-wallpaper-theming [5] https://www.androidauthority.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-material-you-wallpaper-theming-1194829/ [6] https://www.androidcentral.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-adds-material-you-wallpaper-theming [7] https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/12/19/android-auto-14-9-beta-adds-material-you-color-theming-from-your-phone-wallpaper/ [8] https://www.androidcentral.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-adds-material-you-wallpaper-theming [9] https://www.xda-developers.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-material-you-wallpaper-theming/ [10] https://www.androidauthority.com/android-auto-14-9-beta-material-you-wallpaper-theming-1194829/ [11] https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/12/19/android-auto-14-9-beta-adds-material-you-color-theming-from-your-phone-wallpaper/
Smartphones and gadgets play a significant role in the new Android Auto update, as the interface now dynamically matches the color scheme of the user's phone wallpaper. Furthermore, the technology behind Android Auto may integrate more deeply into a car's existing systems, offering a personalized driving experience.
