Audio-Only Mode is a function that will allow driving without video is being developed for Android Auto by Google. It aims to help keep drivers safer. Let’s see how in the following lines.
When video apps like YouTube, are found in more cars, drivers won’t need to watch the screen to enjoy audio content. Google’s goal is to let vehicle occupants listen to their music or watch TV while driving safely.
What Does the Audio-Only Mode Do?
The new audio-only mode will hide videos from apps such as YouTube and similar video-streaming services while you drive.
This new mode makes listening to music or podcasts safer and easier, even for apps made for watching videos.
The video only shows the play button. It might include a few basics like the episode title or how far it’s played—no pictures and no clutter.
The Reason Google Is Pushing Audio Ahead
The latest changes to Android Auto are focused on keeping your trips safe. People like to use more apps while driving, it is more important than ever to keep distractions down. As a result, Google is adding an Audio-Only Mode. So drivers don’t need to look at the screen and can still enjoy what they like to listen to.
The new mode makes it possible for users to enjoy videos simply through sound. Videos playback only the sound and the screen shows only the basic controls for playback. It’s an easy solution to use apps such as YouTube when you are driving. You’ll only be able to watch full videos when your vehicle is in park mode.
What Role It Has in Google’s Overall In-Car Future
This action is a step towards Google’s aim for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS. This drives infotainment displays in vehicles produced by Volvo, Polestar, and GM.
Google is making the platforms smarter. It includes Assistant voice control, easier media browsing, and new playback modes like playing audio only.
Which Apps Could Provide Audio-Only Calls?
A full list from Google is forthcoming. It appears on YouTube, YouTube Music, Spotify, and other top services related to podcasts, and music. The videos will all be available with RCS.
We want to make sure that any kind of entertainment you use while driving never becomes a safety risk. A few cases illustrating this approach are described below.
YouTube may turn on your audio from video while you drive. It keeps your screen small so you’re not tempted to look at it.
On some platforms, like Spotify and Google Podcasts, you may find that your episode will switch to audio. However, back to the video after you are parked.
When Do Get for Chat Audio-Only Option?
Google hasn’t mentioned when this feature will be live, but we’ll likely see it in the next Android Auto update. The update may be gradually released to you either by Play Services updates or updates to your apps.
Before the full release, users may notice the beta version of new updates in certain channels.
The compatibility level between a vehicle and Android Auto depends on the manufacturer and which version you use. More details may be revealed by Google at a developer event or in blog posts shortly.
Final Thoughts
With cars getting smarter and better infotainment systems each year, making safety a priority becomes increasingly important. It’s good that Google has added an Audio-Only Mode.
This shows it cares about keeping drivers safe as they use Google Maps. If you listen to podcasts or audio on your drives, you can do so safely, thanks to this feature.
More Reading: AAWireless TWO+ Adds Android Auto and CarPlay
