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

Google revealed the biggest Android Auto update to date at The Android Show conference on May 12, 2026. The system, used daily by millions of drivers worldwide, is getting a complete visual overhaul following Material 3 Expressive — the design language Google is introducing across the entire Android ecosystem. The result is smoother animations, bolder typography, and wider options for personalizing 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 are reminiscent of a concept well known from mobile phones, and aim to minimize the number of touches during driving.

The biggest visual leap, however, is "Immersive Navigation" in Google Maps. Google describes it as the biggest navigation upgrade in over ten years. The new mode adds detailed 3D visualization of roads, buildings, and terrain along with improved lane guidance, traffic light indicators, and overlay stop signs. For drivers using increasingly large infotainment displays — 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. Supported car brands include BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, and Volvo — great news for Czech drivers, as Škoda is one of the most common brands on domestic roads.

Google additionally confirmed that video playback won't stop immediately after driving off. Supported apps — such as 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 with 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 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 suite 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 finds it in emails, messages, or calendar and offers a one-tap response.

Google even demonstrated ordering food while driving: Gemini can reorder a favorite meal through DoorDash so it's ready for pickup exactly upon 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 these, Gemini gains access to the vehicle's own information. The driver will thus be able to ask what a specific dashboard warning light means, or — as Google demonstrated — whether a particular item will fit in the trunk.

Google Maps can additionally use the vehicle's front cameras (if equipped) for more precise lane positioning and providing 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 car manufacturers that use Android Automotive. Beyond the already mentioned brands, this covers a wide spectrum from mass-market manufacturers to the premium segment.

Google has not yet announced a specific date — 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 new features within weeks to months, while older vehicles may wait longer, or receive only some of the new features.

What this means for the Czech Republic

For Czech drivers, the presence of Škoda among the supported brands is particularly crucial. 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 like 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's important that the proactive Gemini assistant functions comply with the requirements of the EU AI Act — especially in the area of personal data processing and AI transparency. Google has not yet announced whether all contextual features will be available to the same extent on the European market, where stricter rules apply than in the USA.