Google’s new split-screen search for Android Auto is rolling out to everybody

Wherever the inspiration comes from, I respect it. Dubbed “Coolwalk” in testing during the last yr or so, the brand new UI has been publicly accessible in beta kind for a number of months after it was publicly introduced within the spring, and as a longtime Android Auto person, I’ve had it in my automobile.

While Android Auto beforehand prioritized both the media participant or navigation, shoving the opposite choice to a standing bar on the backside, now you possibly can skip by a podcast and nonetheless maintain the Google Maps display up and even have it in the principle window.

I used to be frightened that the extra data could be distracting, however after attempting it, I believe that isn’t the case. There’s often a dual-pane setup seen — you possibly can nonetheless have only one app exhibiting for those who favor — and it didn’t undergo in my automobile for the shared display house. It additionally makes Google Assistant extra helpful in-car, as messages slide in as a 3rd phase within the nook, sometimes with one-touch choices to ship canned replies to texts or, for those who’re heading on a visit, a solution to ship your ETA to a contact simply.

The launcher bar continues to be part of Android Auto, placing a few of your not too long ago used apps on the underside or facet of the display the place they are often shortly pulled up, which is sweet for those who don’t know whether or not it is a podcast or a music day.

One characteristic that’s nonetheless coming quickly for current Pixel and Samsung telephones is the flexibility to make calls utilizing WhatsApp from inside Android Auto.

Google didn’t give particulars on the timing for the rollout however stated CES 2023 attendees may test it out in a BMW i7 in the event that they’re across the present ground this week.