The Upcoming Android Auto Update May Enhance Comfort with New Controls
Key Information
- Google is in the early stages of creating new temperature controls for Android Auto.
- The initial version suggests options for high, low, and off settings, but further features may be added as development continues.
- A recent demo of Android Auto’s Gemini integration shows its ability to handle voice commands for music, questions, and trip planning.
Recent reports indicate that Google has made a significant enhancement to Android Auto that aims to improve the driving experience. An update for the Android Auto 13.9 beta revealed some intriguing new code suggesting enhanced vehicle air control features.
According to findings by 9to5Google, the new code in the 13.9 beta version hints at options for vehicle air controls. It is an interesting move, especially since the terms used in the code do not specifically refer to “temperature,” like typical settings for hot or cold air. Instead, it mentions airflow pressure from car vents, indicating a broader approach to air management.
The labels found in this updated version include “control_temperature_hi,” “control_temperature_lo,” and “off.” It raises questions as to why Google chose “high” and “low” instead of more direct terms like “hot” and “cold.” While the precise functionalities of these new options are not yet clear, it could be an early glimpse into a more robust temperature control system that may be fully developed in the future.
Discovered within the v13.9.151004 iteration of Android Auto, this update primarily consisted of minor adjustments, focusing on bug fixes and language tweaks rather than groundbreaking features.
Furthermore, there’s curiosity surrounding whether these temperature controls will be compatible with the expected Gemini integration for Android Auto. Recently, a demo video showcased the potential functionalities of Android Auto combined with Gemini, including voice-activated commands for music streaming via platforms like Spotify and answering user inquiries about various locations. However, the AI interface demonstrated some shortcomings in trip planning, needing improvements to offer meaningful insights.
While the AI features provided some level of interactivity, the information shared was limited, particularly during discussions of “affordable trip” planning until the later parts of the demo. The applicability of this temperature control feature remains to be seen, especially if it can interact seamlessly with the broader functions of Gemini in the future.
Moreover, the Android Auto 13.5 update from January hinted at Google’s intention to expand the system’s compatibility with additional vehicles, including the integration of motorcycles into its platform.
The ongoing developments in Android Auto’s temperature management suggest that Google is not just striving for better functionality but is also keen on enhancing how users interact with their vehicles through technology. Whether these changes will lead to a fully embedded temperature control system remains uncertain, but the foundation appears to be in the works.
As these improvements unfold, Android Auto is becoming increasingly positioned to offer more comprehensive integration with driving needs, potentially culminating in a more enhanced user experience overall.
