Android Auto might be getting these three huge upgrades

https://www.androidpolice.com/android-auto-might-be-getting-these-three-huge-upgrades/

Publish Date: 2026-03-23 12:31:00

Android Auto 16.5 has been released, and it’s largely a bug-fixing update that squashes a few of those pesky gremlins that may be affecting your driving experience.

As such, Android Auto 16.5 isn’t a particularly exciting release, with no major changes or additions. However, it hints that some huge tweaks and new features are coming down the line, as it’s become clear from the code that Google is adding some very long-awaited quality of life improvements.

No more leaving Android Auto to change AC or the radio

Android Auto is easily one of the best car infotainment systems available, but there are still some areas that have long been issues for experienced users. The need to change from the Android Auto app to change the radio station you’re listening to, for instance. If your radio station of choice doesn’t have an Android Auto app, then you can use your regular radio — but you’ll have to swap away from Android Auto to do it.

The same is true of air conditioning controls. If your AC is controlled only through your touchscreen, with no hardware dials, then you’ll need to swap away from Android Auto to make even the most minor of changes. Minor annoyances most of the time, but drastically larger if you’re in the middle of a tricky piece of driving and want to make small alterations to your AC temperature.

Well, things are hopefully going to change soon, as it’s becoming clear that Google wants…

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