The latest version of Android Auto, informally referred to as “Coolwalk,” introduces a new and user-friendly dashboard interface. However, some users have noticed the absence of the persistent weather icon, which was previously available. Nevertheless, there are indications that this feature may make a comeback in the future.
The persistent weather icon has undergone several changes throughout the evolution of Android Auto. In its original form, the platform featured a continuous weather card on the home screen, providing users with information about their local weather conditions. Tapping on the card would trigger a display of the forecast. However, this feature was removed during a major overhaul of Android Auto and subsequently reintroduced as a tucked-away icon. Surprisingly, the most recent update, “Coolwalk,” removed the weather icon once again.
PSA: seems like Google really wants to bring back weather visualization on all aspect ratios (about time). Bad news is: at the moment this flag does nothing at all. Android Auto keeps on showing weather card only on portrait aspect ratios.
by u/shmykelsa in AndroidAuto
Earlier this year, a Google employee hinted at the company’s intention to reintroduce a form of weather icon in the latest design of Android Auto. Recent developments suggest that progress is being made towards achieving this goal.
To provide some context, the “Coolwalk” version of Android Auto does include a weather card that can appear on the dashboard. However, it is currently limited to larger displays, particularly those with additional vertical space. Unfortunately, the majority of users with smaller displays do not have access to this card by default, unless specific adjustments are made.
Reddit user u/shmykelsa, who was among the first to discover “Coolwalk” during its early stages, recently identified some advancements in expanding the availability of the weather card across different screen sizes.
An inactive flag within the Android Auto app suggests the possibility of enabling the weather card on “all screens.” Although this feature is not currently functional, our own Kyle Bradshaw has verified that this toggle is relatively new to the Android Auto app.
The timeline for the reintroduction of persistent weather information to Android Auto remains uncertain. However, it is evident that progress is being made towards achieving this goal. In the meantime, Android Auto users can make use of the currently available weather app, with The Weather Channel set to be added soon as well.