Android Auto remains the best-supported Google app on the Play Store. A new update is released every fortnight. These updates rarely come with a changelog; they focus on bug fixes and improvements. Additionally, it tells us about upcoming features, and as expected, Android Auto 14.8 beta hints at future features.
It has only been a few days since the last Android Auto update was released for stable users; a new beta build is now available for select users. While there is no changelog associated with the update, we understand there are no user-facing changes. However, there are hints of upcoming changes, some of which the company announced during the I/O May event.
Details of Android Auto 14.8 beta update
Google is rolling out a new beta update with a version number of v14.8.1527. The build is exclusive to beta testers. These groups of people will preview the build for a few days, and depending on their feedback, Google will start a stable release. So far, there are no negative reviews, meaning a stable rollout will commence soon.
Unfortunately, the update did not introduce any notable features, but it hints at the introduction of Gemini, which will replace Google Assistant. We do not have a specific date for the change; we expect it in the coming months. With the AI-powered Gemini, Google plans to make the Android Auto experience better by using AI to summarize text and messages.
We also anticipate the introduction of video apps. The company officially made the announcement in May but has yet to start the deployment. Perhaps, the wait is to get everything correct, as these video apps will only work when the vehicle is stationary. Once the vehicle starts moving, all video apps will be greyed out, the same safety measure that is available on Android Automotive.
To ensure you get these features when they become available, you need to download and install the latest Android Auto. Fortunately, you can side-load the APK, meaning you do not have to wait for Google. Follow the link below to install the new release.
Download Android Auto 14.8 Beta update
As usual, the rollout is limited to beta testers via the Google Play Store. You cannot see the update if you are not a member. However, you can use this link to download the APK file and install it manually. And after installing the update, if you encounter an issue, you can uninstall the update and move to an older version or wait for a stable release.
