Google is preparing a major expansion of Android Auto capabilities that will allow YouTube videos to be played directly on car screens for the first time. In addition to YouTube, other video applications such as Netflix should also receive support later, and Google is also developing a special audio-only operating mode for driving in parallel.
The new function will allow watching videos in a resolution of up to 60 fps, but only if the car’s infotainment system supports a screen with a sufficiently high resolution and refresh rate. Google says that support will be available on vehicles from brands such as BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Renault, Skoda, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz.
Android Auto gets video playback
However, there is a very important limitation – the video will only be able to be viewed while the car is stationary. As soon as the vehicle starts, Android Auto automatically stops the video display.
Google states that the feature is intended for situations such as waiting while charging an electric car, parking or time spent in front of a school and similar locations.
In order to make the transition as natural as possible, Google is also introducing a special audio-only mode. When the car starts to move, the app automatically switches from video to playing sound in the background, leaving only a static image on the screen.
With the YouTube app, this could mean an additional limitation for users without a Premium subscription, as background audio playback is currently reserved mainly for YouTube Premium users.
Google hasn’t announced an exact arrival date for the feature yet, but the first video apps for Android Auto are expected later this year, with YouTube almost certainly the first service to get full support, reports AutoEvolution.