What to know
- Google is rolling out the Android Auto 13.3 beta update with new radio station support features in development.
- The update includes preparations for a “Car Media” app that will allow users to control AM/FM radio and filter stations by genres/categories.
- While the feature is not yet live, the code suggests deeper integration with vehicle infotainment systems is coming.
Google continues to enhance your in-car entertainment experience with its latest Android Auto 13.3 beta update. The company has been quietly developing a new “Car Media” feature that will change how you interact with your vehicle’s radio system.
As 9To5Google predicts, that the upcoming feature will aim to give you more control over your car’s AM/FM radio stations right from the Android Auto interface. You’ll be able to browse and filter radio stations by different genres and categories, making it easier to find your preferred music or content while on the road.
Behind the scenes, Google has added various music genres and radio station categories specifically tied to the radio functionality like Adult hits, Classic rock, Classical, Country music, Easy listening, Folk music, Children’s programs, Current affairs, Documentary, Drama, Education, Finance, Alarm, Alarm test, College, Culture, Emergency, etc. This suggests the system will likely tap into your car’s infotainment system to display real-time information about currently playing stations, including genre details and possibly even song/segment information.
While the exact launch date remains under wraps, this development aligns with Google’s recent push for deeper vehicle integration. The company has already demonstrated similar capabilities with Ford vehicles, where Android Auto can access battery data and other vehicle information for enhanced Google Maps functionality.
The new radio station feature will require some form of integration with your vehicle’s infotainment system to function properly. When launched, this addition will join Android Auto’s existing media capabilities, which already include popular streaming apps like Spotify and YouTube Music.
For now, the feature remains in development, but its presence in the latest update suggests Google is making steady progress toward bringing traditional radio controls to your Android Auto experience.
