Google Confirms That Android Auto Mobile App Will Be Discontinued, Projects Google Assistant Drive Mode As Replacement

Search engine giant Google has announced that its Android Auto for Phone Screens app will be discontinued. It was a standalone app. Google-branded the Android Auto app as a driving companion. The app helped users to stay focused with Google Assistant. The app offered a friendly interface with large buttons and voice actions. It made it easier to use apps from the phone while driving. It worked by mirroring the features of the smartphone. When it is paired with the vehicle’s display, the user can access the apps on the display. Apps like navigation, SMS, music, and more were easy to use while on the road with the Android Auto app.

The app had support for hands-free operation. This made it even easier to stay connected with the device. The app was released in 2015. The company released its reworked UI in 2019. Google in the same year also discontinued the support that allowed the app to be used on a smartphone. Google did this deliberately to push the Google Assistant’s drive mode. Google has now said that people can use Google Assistant driving mode for a driving-friendly interface. It is available within Google Maps. The company in a statement said that users will be transitioned to the driving mode in Google Assistant. It is an AI-powered virtual assistant. The company said that Google Assistant driving mode will come built-in with Android 12.

Google said that users will see no change in their experience as they will be transmitted to the driving mode from Android Auto. Google confirmed that it is going to shut down Android Auto app after users pointed out that they are getting alerts about the services being available only for car screens. They even figured that Google is pressing for Google Assistant driving mode to be a replacement for it. The Android Auto was available in as many as 36 countries. The app was compatible with more than 400 car models worldwide.