Android Auto changes interface, including a split display

Google uses its I/O conference to announce a new interface for Android Auto. The company says it wants to better adapt to the different screens that are present in cars.

New interface for Android Auto, starting this summer

One of the main novelties with the new interface of Android Auto is a mode to have a split screen. This split screen will be the default mode with three windows, including the right one that takes up the most space and wants to be the map of Google Maps (or another mapping application). On the left, the two spaces are dedicated to important features, such as navigation, the media player or even messages. When you receive messages, Google will allow you to reply using on-screen reply suggestions, including emojis or your voice.

The other central element of this interface is a bar that shows the time, your smartphone’s network and battery status, as well as buttons to open the app list, notifications and Google Assistant. This bar appears either at the bottom of the screen or on the left.

The new version of Android Auto will also adapt to any type of touch screen, regardless of its size. Automakers are starting to get creative with the size of their center display. Google ensures that its system will be able to adapt to all situations.

Coming this summer, Android Auto’s new interface will allow people with 5- or 6-inch screens on older vehicles to use split-screen mode and doesn’t limit multitasking to widescreens like before.