In the latest beta version of Android Auto 14.1, Google has introduced support for games. Currently, this feature is only available to testers, who can now launch popular mobile games like Angry Birds 2 directly on the car’s multimedia screen. This addition aims to make waiting times and breaks on the road more entertaining.
At present, four games are supported: Candy Crush Soda Saga, Angry Birds 2, Farm Heroes Saga, and Beach Buggy Racing. To access them, users must install the corresponding apps on a smartphone connected to Android Auto. However, there is a limitation—the games only function when the car is in parking mode, as noted by The Verge.
Safety and New Features
For safety reasons, games automatically close as soon as the car starts moving. A journalist from 9to5Google confirmed that once the driver changes gears, the game minimizes and disappears from the app list. This restriction ensures that drivers remain focused on the road.
In addition to gaming support, the update introduces full-screen mode for the first time. It remains unclear whether this feature will extend to other apps, but Google seems intent on making Android Auto more functional and closer to car software with built-in services.
Future Updates and Google’s Previous Attempts
Google first announced game support in early March as part of a routine update, reminds NIX Solutions. However, there is no official release date for Android Auto 14.1 beyond beta testing. The company has also not disclosed plans to expand the game selection, yet we’ll keep you updated as more integrations become available.
This is not Google’s first attempt to introduce games to Android Auto. In 2021, the platform gained access to HTML5-based games via GameSnacks. However, industry experts view the latest update as a significant step toward fully integrating mobile gaming into car systems.