Freshly discovered Android Auto video function - a long-awaited enhancement I've been eagerly anticipating.
Audio-Only Video Playback Heads to Android Automotive
Android Auto users will soon be able to enjoy video content while on the move, as Google introduces audio-only video playback to Android Automotive. Currently, video playback is not supported in Android Auto, but this feature is expected to follow its introduction on Android Automotive.
The update comes as Google has uploaded a new clip to the Android Developers account, showcasing the Android Automotive interface transitioning to an audio-only mode for videos when the vehicle is in motion. Android Automotive is the version of Android Auto that car manufacturers can build into vehicles, requiring no Android phone.
Although Android Automotive already supports video apps while parked, this new feature will extend the functionality for those driving. As for Android Auto on phones, there's a recent announcement that video players are "coming soon," so it's possible that audio-only playback will follow shortly.
It's understood that the delay in incorporating video apps into Android Auto is due to the potential distraction to drivers. Given that the software runs from a phone, it's more challenging to detect when the vehicle is moving. However, Google is taking steps to address these concerns by providing support for both video apps and audio-only modes.
For avid YouTube Premium subscribers like myself, this development promises to enrich the in-car entertainment experience. While the video may be disabled during driving, audio-only playback offers access to music gigs, video explainers, ambient music, podcasts, and more. Upon parking, one can still watch football highlights and other video content.
The new functionality is currently being tested by developers for Android Automotive, but its rollout to the consumer version may take time. It is recommended to stay updated for further announcements about video apps and audio-only playback becoming available on Android Auto and Android Automotive.
Additional note: Android Automotive users can currently experience audio-only video playback on vehicles running Android 14 and above through the Android Automotive OS.[1][3]
*[1] 9to5Google. (2023, February 13). Exclusive: Android Automotive gets audio-only mode and other multimedia improvements with the next update. 9to5Google. https://9to5google.com/2023/02/13/exclusive-android-automotive-gets-audio-only-mode-other-multimedia-improvements-with-the-next-update/
[3] Android Developers. (2023, February 13). Preparing for audio-only content in Android Automotive OS. Android Developers. https://developer.android.com/guide/automotive/mediasession/audioonly
- This development in Android Automotive, allowing audio-only video playback, means that smartphone users will be able to access various content such as music gigs, podcasts, and ambient music through their car's audio system while driving.
- The introduction of audio-only video playback to Android Automotive has led to the anticipation of similar features in other gadgets like computing devices and smartphones, broadening the horizons of in-car technology.
- As more focus is being placed on in-car entertainment, the latest news about the integration of audio-only video playback on Android Automotive OS is just another indication of how technology is leveraging smartphones, gadgets, and computing devices to revolutionize our driving experience.
