After appearing in previous leaks, Android Auto’s widget selection is making a comeback as the launch approaches.
Gemini is the latest change to Android Auto, although it has been met with some friction. Google is working on other changes to complete the automotive version of Android, as seen in new leaks.
what was originally leaked as Google’s “Earth” project codename, an unreleased version of Android Auto, has been renamed to align more with what it actually does, which is adding widgets (via Android Authority). The “car widgets” menu now appears in the Android Auto version 16.8.161804-release.daily. When tapped, the menu that appears appears identical to what Android users are used to on the home screen widget selection page.
The menu offers a featured and navigation section, with a search bar for easier navigation. Some of the simple app options seen in the leaked images are Calendar, Chrome, Google Drive, and even ChatGPT. Since Android Auto is designed as an extension of your phone, it would make sense that some widgets designed for the Pixel or other devices would look the same on your car’s dashboard.
Google may also limit the operation of certain widgets on the dashboard to ensure they appear correctly on the screen. For now, little is known how it will work in its entirety.
As is the case with most features found in unreleased app versions, there is no information on when this feature will be announced. Android Auto widgets also carry more weight than other features. It is very likely that it will begin to be implemented soon. With Google I/O approaching, it may be part of new announcements related to Android as a whole.
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