Updates for Android Auto: From new quick settings to the raccoon
Google is planning a practical innovation for Android Auto in the form of Quick Settings. The planned quick access to important settings promises more convenience, but at the same time threatens to overload the user interface in the vehicle.
Hidden menus in beta
Google is currently developing a new feature for its Android Auto infotainment system. The first references to Quick Settings can be found in the current beta version 17.6.663424 of the software. Such quick settings are intended to enable users to operate important functions while driving directly via a pop-up menu without having to go deep into the system settings. The new controls appear in the notification area. Users reach the menu by tapping the battery and signal strength icons. A simple swipe from the top edge of the screen is not enough, as you would expect from smartphones. Next to the switches there is also a direct symbol that leads to the full Android Auto settings.
Just a switch to start
How Android Authority According to an analysis of the program code, the function is still deactivated on the server side. However, developers were able to unlock the menu manually. So far you can only see a single button for Do Not Disturb mode. This allows you to control notification suppression on the connected smartphone. One advantage of the new menu is quick access to frequently used functions. At the same time, the project has disadvantages: the already often densely packed user interface in the vehicle could appear overloaded with additional elements. In addition, typical smartphone switches for WiFi or Bluetooth in the car are usually unnecessary, which requires Google to carefully select the available options. In addition to the quick settings, there is a humorous Easter egg hidden in the beta version. A hidden mode features a raccoon character named Jimothy superimposed over the music widget with weather animations. An official release of the mode is considered unlikely, but indicates tests for a permanent weather display.
Outlook on the redesign
The work on quick settings fits into a larger strategy. Google is planning a major redesign of Android Auto by the end of the year. The system will have a “borderless look” that better adapts to different screen formats in vehicles. This brings the software visually closer to the competing product Apple CarPlay. It is unclear whether and when the quick settings will be activated for all users. Google has not officially announced the feature yet. Since these are findings from a so-called APK teardown – an in-depth analysis of the installation file – the development could be rejected at any time.
