Android Auto to Launch Video Streaming and Browsers: Entertainment on the Go (When Parked!)
Get ready to transform your car's dashboard into an entertainment hub! Android Auto is gearing up for a major update, bringing long-awaited video streaming apps and browsers to your in-car experience. This news, revealed at Google I/O 2025, promises to redefine how you spend time in your car, especially when parked. But, there's a catch – safety first!
The upcoming features aim to enhance the usability of Android Auto while ensuring driver safety. As reported, video apps and browsers are "coming soon," but with a specific limitation: they'll only be accessible when your vehicle is parked. This ensures that drivers aren't distracted while on the road, prioritizing safety above all else.
Initially, video apps on Android Auto will be available to phones running Android 16 and on select compatible cars. Google hinted toward the necessity of being parked before launching any video app. Google also mentioned that you will be able to listen to the audio from the videos while you're driving in early access.
While the details on browser apps are still scarce, it appears this feature might take a bit longer to roll out. Specifically, because browsers are still so new to Cars with Google built-in (labeled as “in Beta”). The hope is that Chrome will be available and allow for Cast support, similar to what Rivian vehicles already offer.
In addition to video and browser functionalities, weather apps have now graduated from beta on Android Auto and Cars with Google built-in. This means developers can freely publish weather apps without needing specific approval, as long as they meet the quality guidelines. We can expect more weather apps appearing soon.
Gemini assistant is coming to Android Auto in the coming months, eventually, it'll take over all voice control duties on the dashboard.
What do you think about these changes coming to Android Auto? Will video streaming while parked be a game-changer for road trips? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
