Google Adds Firefox and 700-Plus App Discovery to Cars as YouTube Shifts to Audio While Driving
Updated
Updated · GSMArena.com · Oct 14
Google Adds Firefox and 700-Plus App Discovery to Cars as YouTube Shifts to Audio While Driving
3 articles · Updated · GSMArena.com · Oct 14
Summary
Google will roll out an updated Play Store for cars in the coming weeks, adding Firefox, Starz, JioHotstar and Ludo King to Android Automotive systems.
YouTube is also changing: full video playback works only while parked, then automatically switches to audio-only background play once the car is put in drive.
The redesigned store sorts apps by parked-versus-driving use and highlights featured and new titles, aiming to make its catalog of more than 700 automotive apps easier to navigate.
Google said cars with Google built-in now span 16 brands and more than 100 models, with newer partners including Mazda, Honda, BYD, Polestar and Volvo.
Will Google's dynamic Play Store redesign seamlessly upgrade older Android Automotive displays, or leave earlier adopters stuck with outdated interfaces?
As Google transforms car screens into entertainment hubs, will strict safety rules prevent distracted driving, or just push users toward dangerous sideloading?
With YouTube audio now continuing in drive, is Google prioritizing driver safety, or simply leveraging dashboard real estate to push Premium subscriptions?