Next-gen Android Auto comes with shape-shifting capabilities and upgraded Gemini

Google kicked off the Android Show: I/O Edition 2026 with several major announcements, including the new Googlebook, Gemini Intelligence, and AI features in Chrome. However, there are several new perks for Android Auto users as well.

The search giant revealed that there are over 250 million Android Auto-powered cars on the road. More than 100 models across 16 brands have 'Google built-in' to offer a more deeply integrated Gemini and Google Maps experience.

That said, the Android Auto interface got a major design refresh powered by Material 3 Expressive, bringing personal design touches, smoother animations, at-a-glance widgets, and edge-to-edge Google Maps on your dashboard. Thanks to the new shape-shifting powers, it has become better at adapting to screens of different shapes and sizes, whether it's an ultrawide rectangle, a circle, or any other unique shape.

You can tune Android Auto to your preferences by adding shortcuts for your favorite contacts, a weather overview, a one-tap garage door opener, and more. The new features are built on top of the Immersive Navigation experience Google introduced earlier this year, which offers a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses, and terrain.

Modern cars are fitted with high-definition screens and premium audio systems. The latest Android Auto update can turn your car into an on-the-go movie theatre (of course, when it's parked or charging).

You will be able to use apps like YouTube to watch 1080p60 content in supported cars later this year, including those from BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo.

Google notes that videos will keep playing in audio-only mode for apps that support background playback when you start driving, rather than abruptly stopping. Speaking of audio, several car brands will get support for immersive, spatial sound using Dolby Atmos.

The search giant added that if your phone supports Gemini Intelligence, you'll be able to use it in your car via Android Auto. Among various things, you'll be able to order your dinner while driving through apps like DoorDash.

Google said it has optimized Gemini on Cars with Google built in, such that the AI chatbot can answer questions specific to your car, like telling you why a mysterious indicator is scaring you or letting you know if a TV you're about to pick up will fit in your trunk.

Cars with Google built in will also get various features Google has announced for Android Auto, including video-to-audio transition, improved Gemini and Maps, and improved media apps, on top of access to meeting apps like Zoom.