Google has announced a redesigned Google Play experience for cars with Google built-in, with changes to app discovery, navigation and display layouts. The update also adds new entertainment and browsing apps, along with a YouTube feature that lets users continue listening to videos after shifting from park to drive.
Cars with Google built-in are available across 16 brands and more than 100 models, providing access to apps such as Google Maps and Gemini directly on the vehicle’s dashboard without requiring a phone.
Redesigned Google Play experience for cars
Google Play offers more than 700 apps for cars with Google built-in. The redesigned interface changes how users discover, compare and download apps, while adapting to different vehicle displays.
- App discovery: The homepage displays featured apps, new releases and app details, with a single-tap option to download apps.
- Navigation and collections: Streamlined navigation and curated collections help users discover and compare apps across audio, video, gaming and other categories. The collections are tailored to whether the vehicle is parked or being driven.
- Adaptive layout: The interface adjusts to the shape, orientation and size of the vehicle’s display.
New apps and YouTube playback
Google Play is adding STARZ, Firefox, Ludo King and JioHotstar to cars with Google built-in. These apps support streaming shows, gaming and web browsing while the vehicle is parked.
Google is also introducing a YouTube parked-to-drive feature that lets users watch videos on the dashboard while parked and continue listening through background audio without interruption when they shift into drive. The feature requires a YouTube Premium subscription.
Google is developing further in-car media experiences with automakers including Mazda, Honda, Polestar, BYD and Volvo. Its media development partners include Audible, Pandora, SiriusXM, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Gaana and The Post.
Availability
The redesigned Google Play experience for cars with Google built-in will begin rolling out over the coming weeks, with updates installed automatically on compatible vehicle displays. The update also applies to GM vehicles, including the next-generation 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, which feature expansive centre displays.
In these vehicles, users can:
- Download entertainment apps through Google Play.
- Navigate with Google Maps.
- Ask Gemini about their destinations hands-free.