Android Auto 13.6: all the new features and how to update

  • Android Auto 13.6 introduces a redesign to Google Maps that centers the map on the screen.
  • The update brings improvements in stability, fluidity and compatibility with more cars.
  • The interface changes have drawn criticism for hiding key information on the map.
  • The update can be obtained from the Play Store or by downloading the APK manually.
Joaquin Romero

3 minutes

How is android auto 13.6

Google has released the version Android Auto 13.6 without warning or beta phase, which has taken many users by surprise. This update brings with it some important changes, especially in Google Maps, which have generated divided opinions among drivers.

In this article, we break down all the new features, stability and performance improvements, as well as the steps you can take to update your Android Auto system to the latest version.

Changes in the Google Maps interface

One of the most notable changes in Android Auto 13.6 affects Google Maps. The map is now center on screen, which in theory should improve the visibility of the car's location. However, this also brings with it some drawbacks:

  • Centering the map makes the tracking arrow of the vehicle is in the middle of the screen, limiting visibility of the route ahead.
  • When the floating address menu, much of the map is hidden, causing visibility problems and potential distractions while driving.
  • The suggestion box in Google Maps takes up a significant portion of the screen, making it difficult to see the left side of the map.

This redesign has been met with skepticism from drivers, as it may affect the usability of Google Maps on long drives or when a broader view of the route is needed.

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Stability and compatibility improvements

In addition to the interface changes, Android Auto 13.6 introduces a number of Stability and compatibility improvements with more car models. Among the most notable arrangements are:

  • Correction of problems in the connectivity with WhatsApp and other messaging apps.
  • Greater stability in the audio sync on cars that had previous difficulties.
  • Expanded compatibility with new models of electric cars, allowing advanced options for charger selection.
  • Optimizing performance on high-definition displays.

While Google has not published an official changelog, users have reported improvements in the overall fluidity of the system after update.

How to update to Android Auto 13.6

If you want to get the latest version of Android Auto, you have two options:

  • Update from Google Play Store: Go to the App Store, search for “Android Auto” and check if an update is available.
  • Download the APK manually: If the update doesn't appear in the Play Store, you can download the APK file from trusted sites like APKMirror. Make sure you choose the correct version for your phone's architecture (ARM or ARM64).

After installing the update, it is also advisable to check if you have the latest version of Google Maps, to avoid possible incompatibilities.

Android Auto 13.6 has arrived by surprise and with changes that have generated all kinds of reactions. Some improvements in stability and compatibility have been well received, while the new Google Maps interface has caused controversy among drivers.

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Google has not yet announced whether it will make any adjustments in future versions, so it is important to stay up to date to enjoy the best possible driving experience. Share this information so that more people know about the news.