In an effort to promote safer driving, Company Alphabet Inc GOOG GOOGLE Android Auto launched an update that restricts access to certain apps while the vehicle is in motion.
What happened: As reported by Tom’s Guide, the recently refreshed Android Auto version 11.4 will now warn users about apps that can only be used when the car is parked. A small “P” icon will appear in the lower right corner of such apps on the home page, and gaming and video streaming apps reportedly display this icon more often.
This update comes in response to users who previously reported issues with Android Auto restricting access to certain apps unless it’s parked or falsely identifying the vehicle as being in motion. This new feature is expected to clarify app restrictions for users while driving, thereby preventing unnecessary attempts to access restricted apps.
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In addition to limiting app usage, Android Auto v11.4 can now also shorten long text messages that can be heard while driving. According to 9to5Google, the goal is to reduce the risk of distraction by automatically condensing long texts or busy group conversations. Users can choose to disable this text compression feature in their settings on their car display or phone.
Why it matters: This new feature builds on Google’s previous initiative to use artificial intelligence to condense incoming messages for Android Auto users to reduce the distraction of reading multiple messages out loud, especially in group chats.
Furthermore, this addition is part of a broader effort Alphabet Inc. GOOG to improve the user experience on Android devices, as announced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024. The company focuses on promoting seamless connectivity within the Android and Chromebook ecosystems and the interoperability of Android devices with TVs and electric vehicles.
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