This Android Auto update reduces distractions while driving

What do you want to know

• The latest update for Android Auto includes a “P” icon for apps with parking restrictions only, making things clearer for users.
• Previously, attempting to use these apps while driving resulted in an error message.
• Android Auto is also rolling out a new road safety feature called Message Summary.

Android Auto will make it clearer which apps only work when your vehicle is parked.

According to SmartDroid, in the latest software update 11.4, apps with parking-only restrictions will now display a small “P” icon in the lower right corner of the home page. Previously, users attempting to use these apps while driving received an error message.

The indicator will appear on apps such as gaming and video streaming, primarily aimed at electric car owners to use while the vehicle is charging, including GameSnacks, a touchscreen games bundle for Android Auto users.

We’re not entirely sold on the idea of ​​integrating video games into a car’s infotainment system, but it’s easy to understand the need for entertainment during wait times.

This way, with just a glance, users can easily see which apps are useful while the car is driving and which are not.

Android Auto and similar platforms improve automotive infotainment. Unlike older, bulky systems, these are great. The downside is the security issues associated with these rich features. Fortunately, Google fixes this problem in the latest update.

Another new road safety feature now available on Android Auto is Message Summary, according to 9to5Google. It condenses long text messages into summaries that can be listened to while driving. The problem is that messages longer than 40 words will be paraphrased, while those shorter than 40 words will be read in their entirety.

However, because the summary is generated by AI, its accuracy may vary. The original message will still be visible on your phone, so you may still want to check the original text before relying on an AI response.