- Android Auto will support Full HD video apps in selected cars.
- Video apps switch to audio-only mode when vehicles start driving.
- Gemini features will help handle contextual tasks later this year.
Android Auto is getting a sizeable 2026 upgrade, with Google confirming video apps, richer audio support and more Gemini-powered features are all on the way.
The headline change is video. Later this year, Android Auto will support Full HD video apps at 60fps in selected vehicles, starting with apps “like YouTube”. Google has not named individual models yet, but says the first supported brands will include BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata and Volvo.
Video, but not while driving
Before anyone imagines YouTube running mid-commute, there is a key safety catch. Video apps will use an audio-only mode when the vehicle moves from park to drive. Google has already started rolling this out for YouTube in limited form.
That means parked occupants may be able to watch video on the car’s screen, while moving vehicles will fall back to sound only. Sensible, if less fun for anyone hoping to catch a full podcast clip at the lights.
Better sound and bigger maps
Audio is also getting some attention. Android Auto will add Dolby Atmos support in selected apps and vehicles, including models from BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata and Volvo.
Media apps will gain more design flexibility too, following changes previewed around Google I/O 2025. Google has shown examples using Spotify and YouTube Music, suggesting a more polished, adaptable interface for in-car entertainment.
Google Maps Immersive Navigation is also continuing its Android Auto rollout. The redesign brings edge-to-edge maps that can fill the whole vehicle display. Cars with Google built-in will go further, using the front-facing camera for live lane guidance with real-time lane recommendations.
Gemini gets into the cabin
Gemini is also heading to Android Auto later in 2026, with Google saying the assistant will be able to understand context and help complete tasks.
One example is Magic Cue, which can recognise an address in an Android Auto message notification and help send it onwards. Google also shows Gemini voice interactions being used to start a DoorDash order.
Android Automotive vehicles will receive improved media apps and audio-only modes, while a Zoom app for Android Auto is also due this year. Google has not disclosed exact rollout timing for every feature yet, but the direction is clear: Android Auto is becoming more capable when parked, more polished while driving and much smarter in between.
