● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsLow impact2 neutral
Android Auto may add Work Account support for separate personal and business apps
Key points
- Unreleased Android Auto version 18.0.664204 includes Work Account support.
- Work Accounts separate personal and business apps and data.
- Feature would allow work vehicles to access only work-related apps.
- Current test version is not fully functional.
- Work Mode tile was revealed in a teardown.
- A briefcase icon appears over the app drawer with Work Mode.
- Tapping the Work Mode tile currently does nothing.
Work Account Support Discovered
An unreleased build of Android Auto, version 18.0.664204, contains indications of upcoming support for Work Accounts. This discovery suggests Google may be integrating a feature that allows for the separation of personal and business applications within the in-car system.
Functionality Mirrors Android Work Profiles
Work Accounts on Android devices enable users to divide personal and business data and applications, isolating them into separate instances. When Work Profiles are active, a briefcase icon indicates that these apps are accessible. The unreleased Android Auto version adds Work Account to its Quick Settings tile options, and enabling it displays a briefcase icon over the app drawer, similar to the mobile implementation.
Potential for Work Vehicles
This potential addition would be relevant for individuals who use work or corporate vehicles. It would allow them to connect their devices to the car's system with only work-specific applications enabled, preventing personal apps from being active. While the test version is not yet fully functional, its appearance indicates Google's consideration of this feature.
Future Availability Uncertain
There is no official timeline or confirmation regarding if or when Work Account support will be fully implemented in Android Auto. However, its presence in an unreleased build suggests it could be a future development for the platform.
Updates
- Work Mode tile was revealed in a teardown.
- A briefcase icon appears over the app drawer with Work Mode.
- Tapping the Work Mode tile currently does nothing.
✨ 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
A teardown of Android Auto version 18.0.664204 revealed a hidden Work Mode tile, suggesting Google may be developing support for employer-managed applications within the car interface. This feature could allow users to access work-related apps and calls directly from their car's display, potentially impacting work-life balance for some users.
An unreleased version of Android Auto (18.0.664204) shows signs of supporting Work Accounts, allowing users to separate personal and business applications. This feature would enable users to connect to work vehicles with only work-related apps active, mirroring existing Android Work Profile functionality.