In addition to Android 15 for smartphones, the update for the 15th version of Android Auto is also coming soon. Find out here what new features Google plans to enhance your driving experience.
Google is currently working on the latest operating system for Android smartphones, Android 15. But the company is also preparing several updates for cars, which will be available through the new Android Automotive 15 system.
According to the automotive news portal ArenaEV, the new operating system for the onboard computer of supported vehicles will primarily simplify access to your favorite apps. After updating to Android Automotive 15, you will be able to pin these apps to a new dock.
Customizable Ambient View and support for DAB and HD Radio
With Android Automotive 15, you will have the option to customize the “Ambient View” to suit your preferences. This feature is essentially the screensaver for your infotainment display. If you’ve found the current “Ambient View” distracting while driving, this new personalization option should be a relief, as the display is often within your peripheral vision.
Android Automotive 15 will also fully support both HD Radio and DAB. However, it has not yet been explicitly confirmed whether DAB+ (the newer and more efficient version of DAB) will also be supported. This would be particularly important since many radio stations are planning to phase out FM broadcasts and fully switch to DAB+ in the near future.
With Android Automotive 15: Connect headphones via Bluetooth and USB
After the update to Android Automotive 15, you will be able to connect headphones via Bluetooth or USB to the car’s audio system. This is convenient for passengers with different music tastes or children who want to listen to audiobooks. However, keep in mind that you won’t be able to play music through the car’s speaker system at the same time—so you’ll be driving in silence.
Google has not yet released the Android Automotive 15 update, but ArenaEV expects it to arrive in October this year, a year after the release of Android Automotive 14.