Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.Google has announced a big makeover for Android Auto that will benefit more than 250 million cars compatible with the smartphone-mirroring app.The next generation of Android Auto brings a host of improvements, including a new visual and usability experience, premium entertainment, and better integration with the Gemini AI virtual assistant.Designed to Fit on Every Screen with Edge-to-Edge Google MapsThe 2026 Android Auto refresh is immediately obvious from a graphics standpoint as Google says the app is now “tailored to fit and look great on any car screen, whether it's an ultrawide rectangle, a circle or a unique shape.”AdvertisementAdvertisementIn addition, the update brings personal design touches, widgets users can see at a glance (even when navigating), and edge-to-edge Google Maps on the vehicle dash.More specifically, Android Auto gets the Material 3 Expressive design from Android phones featuring expressive fonts, smooth animations and wallpapers. Users can also add a shortcut to their favorites contacts, a one-tap garage door opener, a weather overview, and more.GoogleBut the biggest upgrade is Immersive Navigation, which Google calls the “biggest update to Google Maps in over a decade.” The map adopts a fresh look with a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses and terrain, while critical details like lanes, traffic lights and stop signs are highlighted to help drivers navigate tricky turns.Full HD Video Playback—Including YouTubeGoogleChanges are equally big on the entertainment side of things, as Android Auto introduces the possibility to watch videos on apps like YouTube—only when stationary, obviously.AdvertisementAdvertisementCars that support 60 fps full HD video playback will be the first to get the feature later this year. Those include vehicles from BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Skoda, Tata, and Volvo.Interestingly, when the driver switches gears from parked to drive, videos don’t abruptly stop; they just transition to audio-only in apps that support background audio. 2026 Android Auto also introduces immersive, spatial sound using Dolby Atmos in supported apps and cars, starting with BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo.Furthermore, media apps, including YouTube Music and Spotify, are getting visual updates that will make them easier to use in the car.Gemini Is More Helpful, Especially If Your Phone Has Gemini IntelligenceGoogleGoogle's Gemini AI is now widely available in Android Auto to help users get more done, brainstorm ideas or learn something new while driving. And if your smartphone has Gemini Intelligence, it will be available in the app later this year.AdvertisementAdvertisementGemini Intelligence allows the device to understand your context, anticipate your needs and get things done on your behalf, according to Google.For example, “if you get a text from a friend asking for an address, Magic Cue will understand the context of the question, find the answer using information from your text messages, email or calendar, and offer to send a reply with the right information, all in a single tap.” Gemini Intelligence also allows users to order dinner while driving, starting with Doordash.This story was originally published by Autoblog on May 14, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
