Google has introduced a new design for the Android Auto music player. The update works for all music apps, including Spotify, Apple Music, and more. This change comes with the Android Auto 13.4 update, which has been rolling out over the past week. Along with the new design, the update also adds Material You accent colors to the system.
Redesigned Music Player
The new music player changes how information appears on the screen. The album art now sits on the left side. Next to it, there’s a track progress bar that shows the song title, artist, and time. The text is slightly smaller to fit the layout. Below this, the buttons for controlling playback stretch across the screen. These buttons look familiar but have been adjusted for better spacing.
This redesign makes it easier for drivers to see and use the controls without distraction. The new layout keeps the interface clean and simple.
Consistent Design Across Apps
Android Auto uses a shared design for all music apps. This means Spotify, Apple Music, and other apps look the same on the system. This consistency helps drivers focus on the road. They don’t need to re-learn the controls for each app. The 13.4 update builds on this by improving the layout while keeping the design uniform.
Since the major Android Auto redesign in 2023, the music player hadn’t changed much. This update marks the first major improvement, adding more functionality and style.
Hints of the “Car Media” Feature
This update could signal Google’s progress toward the “Car Media” feature. This feature is expected to let Android Auto play local media from the car, including radio stations. However, it’s not available yet in this version of Android Auto.
The new design also introduces Android Auto’s updated font, giving the interface a fresh look. While this update focuses on visual changes, it shows Google’s ongoing effort to improve Android Auto for drivers. Expect more features and updates in the future.
