Android Auto is in the credits for smartphones. This is confirmed by Google itself, but the divestment process had already been underway for some time. Launched in 2015, the app allows the use of Android Auto via phone, through a modified interface, more accessible thanks to large icons and the voice assistant. The larger notifications and a special integration for Google Maps also helped to facilitate use.
Android Auto for smartphones: the ultimate journey
In 2019, however, Google announced the new integrated driving mode for its Assistant, and therefore Android Auto for smartphones has lost all reason to exist. Some users, however, have reported that now, by opening the app, a message appears that warns of how Android Auto is now an exclusive experience of the infotainment already present on the machines.
These reports have also come from those who have installed Android 12. Therefore the path traced is clear: the next version of Android will no longer integrate any Android Auto app. The only way to use the software will be the Google Assistant driving mode.
The editorial staff of 9to5Google contacted Mountain View directly to ask for confirmation on what is being aired in these hours. And he received these responses:
“The Google Assistant driving mode is our next evolution of the mobile driving experience. For people using Android Auto in supported vehicles, that experience won't go away. For those using the experience on the phone (Android Auto mobile app), the Google Assistant will transition to driving mode. Starting with Android 12, the Google Assistant driving mode will be the integrated mobile driving experience. At the moment we have no further details to share ”.
