Android Auto Set to Revolutionize In-Car Experience with Climate Controls
Android Auto is poised to get a major upgrade, potentially transforming how drivers interact with their vehicles. Google is reportedly developing integrated climate controls for Android Auto, allowing users to adjust temperature, fan speed, and even heated seat settings directly from their in-car display. This move aims to streamline the driving experience and reduce the need to switch between Android Auto and the car's native infotainment system.
As spotted in recent Android Auto beta releases, the upcoming climate controls are designed to appear at the bottom of the display. This implementation could include temperature adjustments, defrost options, fan speed controls, and even support for heated and ventilated seats. The user interface appears to be relatively simple, though the presence of controls for both driver and passenger sides hint at dual-zone climate support, enhancing personalized comfort.
Android Authority managed to enable Google’s work on climate controls in the Android Auto 14.3.151804 beta release. Climate controls show up along the bottom bar of the UI and include temperature, defrost, fan speed, and heated/ventilated seat controls as well. The UI is fairly simple, though this demo shows controls on both sides of the display, which could look pretty cluttered on anything but the largest Android Auto displays.
The addition of climate controls in Android Auto addresses a long-standing user complaint. Currently, many drivers must exit Android Auto to access their car's climate settings, especially in vehicles where these controls are exclusively accessible via a touchscreen. This interruption can be distracting and inconvenient.
According to an APK teardown by Android Authority, the climate control UI includes buttons for controlling dual-zone AC temperature and fan speed, seat heating and cooling, and windshield defrosting. A “sync” option may allow users to synchronize the settings for both sides of the car.
Google is aiming to make Android Auto even more useful. Hidden within new code for the latest build of Android Auto, new climate controls could help drivers (and vehicle passengers) change temperatures, turn on heated seats, and more.
The report highlights that while the UI indicates support for various climate features, their functionality will depend on the car's hardware capabilities. For instance, vehicles without dual-zone climate control or heated seats won't suddenly gain those features through an Android Auto update. However, the presence of a standardized UI is expected to encourage car manufacturers and head unit makers to enhance compatibility and support for these controls.
The integration of climate controls marks a significant step forward for Android Auto, potentially enhancing convenience and safety for drivers. While the exact release date remains unknown, the feature's development progress suggests that it could arrive soon.
What do you think about integrated climate controls in Android Auto? Would you find this feature useful in your car? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
