Coolwalk is the name of an update for Android Auto that has been waiting for several months now. A similar adjustment is also planned for Android Automotive. A major update for Android Auto surfaced a few months ago, but it was never widely rolled out to users. Android Auto will soon bring a new interface with it, which is particularly worthwhile for today’s very wide displays in cars. Coolwalk is the name of the software update, which we’ve been eagerly awaiting ever since.
Multitasking updates for both of Google’s car platforms
But in the meantime, there could be indications that Google is planning a major update for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS together. Either for a feature drop or for the next Google I/O. In both cases, the update means that the user has access to messenger/vehicle data and media player at the same time when the map app is open.
For the full Android Automotive OS it should look like this:
And screenshots from last September show a similar redesign for Android Auto:
Both conversions were leaked too early. Although in each case via official channels, there have not yet been any corresponding announcements from Google. This could be out of line when introducing the next feature drop for Android. Or you wait for the Google I/O, which is always the right place for such announcements.
Multitasking seems optional
Basically, I welcome the adjustments because you don’t have to switch between apps as much. Tesla uses a variant of its own software that is similar to the Android Automotive update. Regardless of whether it’s Android Auto or Android Automotive OS, you can simply hide the menu that is displayed for radio and co.