Android Auto gets the apps drivers to need
Android Auto appears to be geared up for a whole new set of apps, as Google opens the door a little wider when it comes to programs designed to run across your dashboard.
The company is now allowing navigation, parking, and charging apps to be featured on the Google Play Store, giving the smartphone display system a much-needed boost on new functions.
Android Auto operates on an Android smartphone and offers an on-screen interface for compatible infotainment systems.
With this method, you can access Android applications, Google Maps, Google Assistant, and your media, regardless of the vehicle's original user interface.
While Google takes a relatively hands-off approach in what is released in the Google Play Store for Android phones, the risk of distracting drivers and apps that might disrupt the dashboard user interface means that there are more stringent restrictions on the programs that run in Android Auto mode.
In January, Google began testing submissions of new categories of applications, and all relevant means of transportation are still available, but it covers third-party navigation, parking, and electric vehicle charging programs.
And in March, Google launched the Android Car App Library as part of the Android Jetpack Libraries, offering developers an open-source version of the library.
According to Google, most of the developers have moved their apps to Android Jetpack libraries, and the apps they were creating are now released to the public.
And there are a variety of apps to choose from, including familiar names like: Chargepoint and PlugShare, for those who drive electric cars, and T map and A Better Route Planner for those who want an alternative navigation app.
And unlike before, drivers will not have to sign up for a beta program to download and install these applications.
The platform's apps still need to follow the developer's guide and carefully test them to ensure they meet Google's app quality guidelines.
The apps should have a fairly consistent appearance as well, as the library also facilitates interface design so as not to overwhelm the driver while navigating the apps.
And for those who use Android Auto, Google says: There are now more than 500 models of cars compatible with the display system.