Android Auto 12.9: New features and essential updates for drivers

Android Auto 12.9 is reaching its first users. To speed up the process, it is worth manually verifying the update's availability. Automatic installation is not always immediate, even though the new release of Android Auto is already available for download. As usual, Google does not reveal what specifically is new in Android Auto 12.9, but practice shows that drivers can expect system fixes and preparations for new features to be enabled server-side.

One of the new options that should soon appear in cars is the feature to control car multimedia through Android Auto. This includes playing music from external drives and controlling the factory radio, which currently requires exiting Android Auto and using the car's system menu on the screen. Undoubtedly, integrating both systems would help manage multimedia even more quickly. Android Auto 12.9 may bring drivers closer to activating this option through the manufacturer.

The latest fixes related to Google Maps integrated with Android Auto are worth noting. The manufacturer has introduced at least two consecutive changes: an improved lane guidance indicator and the ability to report road issues, which affect trip planning and estimated time of arrival. For many years, this function was available only on smartphones.

Android Auto users should also be interested in version 12.9 because of the entire system's specific lifecycle. If you do not update the app regularly, you may reach a point where installing the latest version will simply be necessary to continue using the app in the car. Android Auto 12.9 is now available for download through our catalogue. Smartphones with Android 10 and newer should install the update automatically from Google Play.