This is a joke! Google released a „new“ version of Android Auto, but only changed one word

Google has started distributing Android Auto version 15.0, but those who expected groundbreaking news will be disappointed. The only visible change is the renaming of a setting item – instead of “Day/Night mode for maps,” you will now find “Theme.” But that’s all. No new features, no UI improvements, simply nothing.

The renaming of the setting suggests preparation for the Android Auto light mode, which Google has been developing for months. However, if you select the light theme in the settings, nothing happens. Android Auto remains dark as before. The change only appears in navigation apps like Google Maps, where switching between light and dark mode already works.

The list of promises grows, reality lags

Google has a long list of features in development for Android Auto. Among the most anticipated are the integration of the AI assistant Gemini, a complete light theme for the entire interface, an improved app drawer with more apps on screen, and a Maps redesign. The problem is that no one knows when these features will arrive.

Some websites report that Android Auto 15.0 already includes new Material icons and a color scheme. However, this is not true – it’s a confusion with a feature that allows Android Auto to adapt icons according to your phone. If you have a Samsung, Android Auto will adopt its icons. But this is not new to version 15.0; it has been working for a long time.

Beta version without beta features

The update is currently only being distributed in the beta channel; it should arrive in the stable version within a few weeks. It’s possible that Google will add some extra features by then, but given the history of recent updates, I wouldn’t hold my breath.

The Google Maps redesign, which is also being discussed, is not part of Android Auto 15.0. It’s a server-side change that Google is testing on a limited number of devices. Some have it, most don’t – and it has nothing to do with the Android Auto version.

What can we expect next?

According to code leaks, Google has several interesting new features up its sleeve. In addition to the aforementioned Gemini and light mode, work is underway on better integration with electric vehicles (displaying battery status directly in Android Auto), support for multiple displays simultaneously, and improved voice control.

The question remains whether we will see these features this year or wait until Android Auto 16.0. Given how slowly Google is progressing with development, I would guess the latter. In the meantime, we have no choice but to settle for the renamed setting and hope that the next update will contain something more…

Have you already installed the new version of Android Auto?

Source: 9to5google