Google has begun rolling out Android Auto version 13.4, which brings a refreshed media player UI. This update introduces significant changes to the in-car listening experience. One of the first noticeable changes is the repositioning of the album art to the left side.
Previously, the media progress bar was located underneath the cover art, but it has now been moved to the right side. The text size appears to have been reduced slightly, and the player’s buttons now span the full width of the display. These updates contribute to an overall cleaner look, though some users may find the additional empty space somewhat stark.
While the screenshot depicts Spotify’s media player UI, it is expected that the same UI tweaks will also apply to other streaming apps like YouTube Music and Apple Music. There is also speculation that this redesign might be laying the groundwork for Google’s rumored “Car Media” feature, which could enable Android Auto to handle local car media, including radio stations. For now, users running Android Auto 13.4 should keep an eye out for these updates.
Since the 2023 redesign of Android Auto, the music player has remained largely unchanged. However, the Android Auto 13.4 update is delivering a notable revamp. In this new update, the music player has moved the album art to the left side, creating space next to it for the track progress bar.
Refreshed media player UI enhancements
This bar now includes the track title, artist, and time underneath, with slightly smaller text to fit the new layout. Below that, the buttons have been adjusted to take up the full width of the display, although they remain fairly similar to their previous design.
The new user interface is showcased with Spotify but will apply to all audio apps on Android Auto. This design update also introduces the updated Android Auto font, which has recently taken effect. The appearance of the new interface may vary depending on the vehicle’s screen shape, resolution, and DPI.
In addition to the media player changes, Android Auto 13.4 also brings the much-anticipated Material You design to the platform. This update introduces new accent colors and visual changes that align with the personalized themes on Android phones. Material You customizes the color palette of the user interface based on the device’s background wallpaper.
This aesthetic update has now been applied to Android Auto, impacting various system elements such as buttons, toggles, and the background of cards and menus. Users with the Android Auto 13.4 update on a Pixel 9 Pro Fold have noticed these color changes when the matching phone wallpaper feature is enabled. Significant interface areas where the new colors can be noticed include the Settings menu and the notification center.
Google is likely to make further refinements over time, and feedback from the community on the implementation and functionality of these changes is encouraged. Through continuous enhancements, Google aims to improve the driving experience for its users.
