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Enhancement on the horizon for Android Auto users, promising improved usability.

Driving enthusiasts may soon experience an app-filled journey ahead!

New developments could bring enhanced usability to Android Auto users
New developments could bring enhanced usability to Android Auto users

Enhancement on the horizon for Android Auto users, promising improved usability.

In an exciting development for Android Auto users, a hidden feature has been discovered within the Android Auto app that could potentially allow for more columns of apps to be displayed. Currently, Android Auto shows up to five columns of apps, but this hidden option, found in Android Auto version 15.0.653204, could enable six or seven columns, providing a more compact view and reducing the need to scroll through multiple pages.

This feature, however, is not officially available yet and has been discovered through code analysis. Enabling it typically involves updating to the latest Android Auto version, using developer options, third-party tools, or ADB commands to toggle or force enable the expanded app grid. It's important to note that this is still an experimental feature and may not be stable or accessible in all vehicles.

The move to more columns of apps in Android Auto could be a response to the growing trend of larger in-car displays. Android Auto's code supports up to seven columns of apps, but the number of columns that appear will still depend on your car's display size. Quick controls (like music and call shortcuts) may or may not be available with the expanded grid.

One potential downside to this new display format is that increasing columns means smaller app icons and less space around them, requiring more precise taps to launch apps. This could be a challenge for some users.

Android Auto's app selection is slightly limited, focusing on navigation, communication, entertainment, and weather. Most drivers likely have preferred navigation, music, and messaging apps, rather than needing numerous apps constantly. Accessing all apps on Android Auto can be a challenge for those with a large collection, leading to extensive scrolling.

Google Assistant (soon to be replaced by Gemini) simplifies app opening and usage in Android Auto via voice commands, further reducing the need for extensive scrolling. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay aim to provide necessary services while minimizing distractions during driving.

When parked, Android Auto also offers browsers, games, and video apps, but these can be cluttered and distracting. It's recommended to avoid using these features while driving.

No official Google release date or user-facing setting is available yet, so this remains an advanced customization mostly for enthusiasts willing to modify the app settings. Stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing development in Android Auto.

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