Android Auto 14.1 Beta Brings Gaming and Fullscreen Mode to the Forefront

The world of in-car entertainment just got a whole lot more exciting! Google has rolled out the beta version of Android Auto 14.1, and it’s packed with some amazing new features. In this post, we’ll dive into the details of what’s new and what it means for Android Auto users.

Gaming on the Go

The most significant addition to Android Auto 14.1 is support for a selection of Android games. Yes, you read that right – you can now play your favorite mobile games on your car’s touchscreen while parked! The initial lineup includes four titles: Candy Crush Soda Saga, Angry Birds 2, Farm Heroes Saga, and Beach Buggy Racing. To get started, you’ll need to have the games installed on your phone, and then you can access them from the Android Auto app.

But Wait, There’s a Catch!

While gaming on the go sounds like a dream come true, there’s a catch. Unfortunately, the games will only work while the car is parked, and they’ll automatically close when you shift out of park. This is likely due to safety concerns, as playing games while driving is not only distracting but also dangerous.

Fullscreen Mode: A Game-Changer?

Another exciting addition to Android Auto 14.1 is the introduction of fullscreen mode. This feature allows apps to take over the entire screen, providing a more immersive experience. While it’s not clear if this option will be extended to other types of apps, it’s a great step forward for Android Auto.

What’s Next?

While we don’t have a release date for the gaming and fullscreen features to leave beta, it’s clear that Google is committed to bringing a more comprehensive software experience to Android Auto. With the addition of gaming support, Android Auto is now closer to the software experience found in cars with Google built-in, which already support a wider range of games.

Actionable Insights

• If you’re an Android Auto user, be sure to keep an eye out for the beta update and give the new gaming and fullscreen features a try.
• If you’re a developer, this is a great opportunity to create apps that take advantage of Android Auto’s new fullscreen mode.
• If you’re a car manufacturer, consider integrating Android Auto into your vehicles to provide a more comprehensive software experience for your customers.

Summary

The beta version of Android Auto 14.1 is a significant step forward for the platform, bringing gaming and fullscreen mode to the forefront. While there are some limitations to the gaming experience, it’s clear that Google is committed to providing a more comprehensive software experience for Android Auto users. As we wait for the features to leave beta, we can’t help but wonder what’s next for Android Auto. One thing is for sure – the future of in-car entertainment is looking bright!