What's new: redesign, widgets, and 3D maps

At The Android Show conference on May 12, 2026, Google revealed the biggest update to Android Auto yet. The system, which millions of drivers around the world use daily, is getting a complete visual overhaul based on Material 3 Expressive — a design language that Google is rolling out across the entire Android ecosystem. The result is smoother animations, more distinctive typography, and broader customization options for the dashboard screen.

A completely new feature is widgets on the home screen. Drivers will be able to pin key information directly to the main screen — from current weather to most frequently called contacts and smart home controls, such as opening garage doors. The widgets resemble a concept well known from mobile phones, and their goal is to minimize the number of touches while driving.

The biggest visual leap, however, is “Immersive Navigation” in Google Maps. Google describes it as the biggest navigation upgrade in more than ten years. The new mode adds detailed 3D visualization of roads, buildings, and terrain along with improved lane guidance, traffic light indicators, and Stop sign overlays. For drivers using ever larger infotainment screens — especially in modern electric vehicles — this means significantly clearer and more intuitive navigation.

Video in the car: YouTube and Dolby Atmos

After years of waiting, video playback is finally coming to Android Auto. When parked, it will be possible to stream apps like YouTube in full HD resolution at 60 fps directly on the display of a compatible vehicle. Among the supported automakers are BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, and Volvo — which is great news for Czech drivers, as Škoda is one of the most common brands on domestic roads.

Google additionally confirmed that video playback will not end immediately after the car starts moving. Supported apps — for example, Spotify or podcast players — will smoothly switch from video to audio-only mode. Ideal for long podcasts or listening to YouTube content while driving.

The audio experience is taken to a new level by Dolby Atmos support. Spatial sound will be available in compatible vehicles and apps. Combined with increasingly powerful speaker systems in premium electric vehicles and luxury cars, this means that even a charging break can turn into a mini cinema.

Gemini: from passive assistant to proactive partner

While the visual and multimedia improvements are immediately visible, the real depth comes from Gemini AI integration. Google had already begun deploying Gemini in Android Auto, but now a full set of contextual features is arriving.

The main idea is for the automotive assistant to transform from a reactive helper (“Hey Google, navigate home”) to a proactive partner. Gemini can automatically understand context — for example, when a friend sends an SMS asking for an address, the assistant can find it in emails, messages, or the calendar and offer a response with a single tap.

Google even demonstrated ordering food while driving: Gemini can reorder a favorite meal via DoorDash so that it is ready for pickup exactly at the time of arrival. While this feature is primarily targeted at the US market, the technological foundation for similar services in Europe already exists.

Google built-in: when the car understands itself

An even deeper integration awaits vehicles with the Google built-in operating system (formerly Android Automotive). In them, Gemini will gain access to information about the vehicle itself. The driver will thus be able to ask what a specific warning light on the dashboard means, or — as Google demonstrated — whether a specific item will fit in the trunk.

Google Maps will also be able to use the vehicle’s front cameras (if equipped) to more accurately determine position in the lane and provide more relevant navigation instructions in real time.

How many cars will get it and when?

The update will affect more than 100 models from 16 automakers that use Android Automotive. In addition to the brands already mentioned, this covers a wide spectrum from mass-market manufacturers to the premium segment.

Google has not yet announced a specific date — the updates are expected to arrive “gradually throughout the year”. Given the gradual distribution typical of automotive software, it can be expected that the first models will receive the new features in a matter of weeks to months, while older vehicles may wait longer or receive only some of the new features.

What it means for the Czech Republic

For Czech drivers, the crucial factor is especially the presence of Škoda among the supported brands. Škoda Auto, which in 2025 introduced models with Google built-in, is among the manufacturers actively cooperating with Google on integrating new features. Specifically, models such as the Škoda Elroq and the new generation of Enyaq should be among the first vehicles with full support for the new features.

From the perspective of European regulation, it is important that the proactive assistant features of Gemini comply with the requirements of the EU AI Act — especially in the areas of personal data processing and transparency of AI functioning. Google has not yet announced whether all contextual features will be available to the same extent in the European market, where stricter rules apply than in the USA.