Google Releases Android Auto 12.9: This Is What’s New and How to Download the Latest Version

On Sept. 25, Google released the new Android Auto 12.9 update. The operating system is integrated into your Android phone, and you can use it directly on your car’s screen when connected.

While there are no major new features, the latest version of Android Auto introduces a small change in the Maps app. This aims to help avoid mistakes when taking detours.

Android Auto 12.9 New Features

Unlike previous versions, the latest Android Auto includes a small change in Google Maps. Although it’s not a very big change, it’s an interesting improvement for driving.

Google’s navigation app now provides clearer lane indications for drivers, with a larger and clearer graphic to guide you on the road.

This will help you avoid confusion about which lane you should be in, especially with multiple exits. As such, you won’t find yourself in the wrong lane or taking the wrong route, which can be frustrating given that it may require you to backtrack.

However, there are no other updates at this time. It’s important to keep in mind that Android Auto (and its new features) is integrated into the system, so any errors in the app can be critical, especially since it’s designed for use in the car. This is why Android Auto updates can’t simply introduce a new feature and refine it later on. Any malfunction could have serious consequences. Additionally, including compatibility with new car models is easier this way.

How to Update to Android Auto 12.9

Google has already released the stable version of Android Auto 12.9, which means that anyone can start using it easily. You can update to Auto 12.9 directly using the Google Play Store: Check for updates of the apps installed on your phone and find the Android Auto update.

You can also manually download the update by getting the APK from APKMirror. You’ll need to know whether your phone’s architecture is ARM or ARM64 and download the latest available version. If your device is quite new, it’s almost certainly the ARM64. Once downloaded, you just need to install the APK file on Android.