Android Auto will not allow you to use these apps while driving

Whether you’re a frequent road tripper or a daily commuter, it’s hard to imagine driving without your smartphone. With the convenience of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, we can easily navigate, enjoy our favourite tunes, and stay updated with app notifications, all on our car’s infotainment screen.

However, unlike our phones, Android Auto imposes certain restrictions on browsing. These limitations are crucial for your safety, designed to keep you focused on the road and minimise distractions while driving. In a more recent update, Google has released a new update for Android Auto, which will restrict certain app notifications unless you’re stationary or in parking mode. Here’s what you should know.

Android Auto: Which apps will be restricted?

There are several applications that you can use with Android Auto; however, Google has now imposed restrictions which will allow you to use them only if your vehicle is parked. These will also include GameSnacks, a touch-screen game application for Android Auto users. Apps with restrictions will typically display a badge over their logo, displaying a ‘P’ icon, depicting that they can only be used when your vehicle is in a parked state. 

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If that’s not all, Android Auto will also grey out the icons, ensuring they are no longer clickable. Once your car is parked, the icons in question will automatically return to their normal colour and be available for use by the driver again. 

The update was first spotted by SmartDroid and was later revealed to be a part of the Android Auto 11.4 update. The update also comes after Andriod Auto’s text summarising feature. This addition will let users summarise the messages they receive, depending on the context, allowing them to keep their eyes glued to the road.