Android Auto adds video apps, Dolby Atmos and Gemini help for 2026
Android Auto adds video apps, Dolby Atmos and Gemini help for 2026
Publish Date: 2026-05-18 03:29:00
Source Domain: www.drivencarguide.co.nz
- Android Auto will support Full HD video apps in selected cars.
- Video apps switch to audio-only mode when vehicles start driving.
- Gemini features will help handle contextual tasks later this year.
Android Auto is getting a sizeable 2026 upgrade, with Google confirming video apps, richer audio support and more Gemini-powered features are all on the way.
The headline change is video. Later this year, Android Auto will support Full HD video apps at 60fps in selected vehicles, starting with apps “like YouTube”. Google has not named individual models yet, but says the first supported brands will include BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata and Volvo.
Video, but not while driving
Read More
Before anyone imagines YouTube running mid-commute, there is a key safety catch. Video apps will use an audio-only mode when the vehicle moves from park to drive. Google has already started rolling this out for YouTube in limited form.
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.
That means parked occupants may be able to watch video on the car’s screen, while moving vehicles will fall back to sound only. Sensible, if less fun for anyone hoping to catch a full podcast clip at the lights.
Better sound and bigger maps
Audio is also getting some attention. Android Auto will add Dolby Atmos support in selected apps and vehicles, including models from BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata and Volvo.
Media apps will gain more design flexibility too, following changes previewed around Google I/O 2025. Google has shown examples using Spotify and YouTube Music, suggesting a more polished, adaptable interface for in-car entertainment.
Google Maps Immersive Navigation is also continuing its Android Auto rollout. The redesign brings edge-to-edge maps that can fill the whole vehicle display….
