Google released Android Auto 16.3 beta. Its code reveals what features we can look forward to

The popular tool for mirroring a smartphone to a car display has received another update in the beta channel. Although Android Auto 16.3 brings no visible new features for regular users, its code hides interesting hints of what Google is currently working on.

Light Theme Still in Development

Editors at 9to5Google, while analyzing the code of the new version, came across the string „Coolwalk__use_light_dark_theme_focus_input”, which suggests ongoing work on the interface’s light theme. This feature has been in development for over a year, so its appearance in the code does not yet mean we should expect it anytime soon.

Video Apps on the Horizon

More interesting is the string „CradleFeature__allow_video_apps”, which relates to video app support in Android Auto. Google officially announced this feature in May 2025, but has not yet revealed a specific launch date or details on its functionality. It can be assumed that video playback will only be possible when the vehicle is parked.

Google released Android Auto 16.3 beta. Its code reveals what features we can look forward to Adam Kurfürst News Adam Kurfürst News

The stable version of Android Auto 16.2 is currently rolling out to users, while version 16.3 is only available in the beta program for now.

Which video app are you most looking forward to in Android Auto?

Source: 9to5Google