● Covered by 1 source · 2 reportsMedium impact1 neutral
Android Auto Updates: WhatsApp Calling Enhanced, Google Maps Speedometer Rolling Out
Key points
- WhatsApp on Android Auto now supports hands-free calls and call history.
- Users can access favorite contacts via voice commands in WhatsApp.
- Google Maps in Android Auto is rolling out a live speedometer.
- The speedometer has been seen by some users, including one in Canada.
- The Google Maps speedometer is in app version 26.29.02.946673643 (beta).
Enhanced WhatsApp Experience
Meta has updated WhatsApp for Android Auto, improving its functionality for drivers. The refresh allows users to make calls, view call history, and access favorite contacts directly from the car's display using voice commands. This update addresses previous limitations in WhatsApp's in-car communication features.
Google initially announced support for WhatsApp calls in Android Auto in 2023, and this update delivers on that promise, providing a more integrated audio experience for messaging within the vehicle.
Google Maps Speedometer Rollout
Google Maps is starting to roll out a live speedometer feature for Android Auto. This functionality displays the current speed on the dashboard, a feature that has been available on Apple CarPlay since July 2024 and on Android phones for an extended period.
Reports from users indicate the speedometer is appearing for some, with one user in Canada observing it on app version 26.29.02.946673643, which is part of the beta program. The rollout is not yet widespread, and availability may vary.
Impact on Drivers
These updates aim to improve the in-car experience for Android Auto users. The WhatsApp enhancements provide more comprehensive hands-free communication options, while the Google Maps speedometer adds a requested navigation detail directly to the car's interface. Both features contribute to a more integrated and functional driving environment.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
The daily brief
One email each morning: the day's tech stories, clustered across outlets and summarized. No account needed.
One email a day. Unsubscribe in one click, any time.
Today's brief
Spend a few minutes, get the whole day. Every topic's top stories in one hands-free rundown — listen, watch, or read the transcript.
▶ Play today's brief
New every morning, and the back catalogue is archived by date.
How outlets covered it
Meta has rolled out an update for WhatsApp on Android Auto, enabling hands-free calls, access to call history, and favorite contacts directly from the car's screen using voice commands. This update improves in-car communication for drivers, addressing a previously limited feature set for the messaging application.
Android Auto is starting to roll out a live speedometer feature in Google Maps. This update addresses a long-awaited functionality that has been available in other platforms but slow to reach Android Auto.