Android Auto Now Has Gaming Features in Effort to Ape Tesla

Google’s latest update to Android Auto has introduced a gaming feature designed to bring in-vehicle entertainment to a new level. The move to include games in Android Auto aims to replicate the success seen in Tesla vehicles, where in-car gaming has been available for several years. This addition, although currently limited to a select number of titles, could reshape how users engage with their vehicles while parked.

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is an app developed by Google that allows users to mirror the interface of their Android smartphones on the car’s infotainment system. With Android Auto, drivers can easily access maps, music, texts, and calls, among other smartphone functions, directly through their car’s touchscreen.

The Introduction of Gaming to Android Auto

In the upcoming Android Auto 14.1 update, Google is bringing in the ability to play games on the vehicle’s touchscreen display. This feature is currently only available when the car is parked, preventing drivers from being distracted while on the road. Google’s foray into in-car gaming is clearly an attempt to expand the in-vehicle entertainment experience and compete with Tesla, which has long included gaming options.

Available Games on Android Auto

The initial batch of games included in the update consists of popular titles like Farm Heroes Saga, Candy Crush Soda Saga, Angry Birds 2, and Beach Buggy Racing. These games are designed to fit the vehicle’s display, and while they may not yet be fully optimized, they provide a distraction for passengers during long trips or when waiting in the car.

How Does the Gaming Feature Work?

Once the Android Auto 14.1 update is installed, users can launch the game through the app drawer, but the experience is intended for passengers, not the driver. As the game requires physical interaction with the screen, it’s essential that players remain safely parked to avoid any accidents.

Why Is Google Adding Games to Android Auto?

Google’s move to introduce games to Android Auto could be viewed as a direct attempt to compete with Tesla’s in-car entertainment offerings. Tesla vehicles have included gaming features for several years, allowing drivers and passengers to play games like Beach Buggy Racing and Cuphead on the built-in touchscreen. However, Tesla faced criticism for allowing games to be played while driving, leading the company to restrict certain gaming features when the car is in motion.

By adding games to Android Auto, Google is signaling its interest in enhancing the in-car experience for both Tesla owners and those who prefer Android-based infotainment systems.

Can You Play These Games While Driving?

No, these games are only available when the car is parked. Google has made it clear that these features are strictly for use when the vehicle is not in motion. This is a crucial safety measure, as gaming while driving can lead to distractions that pose serious risks on the road.

What Are the Benefits of Android Auto’s Gaming Feature?

While the addition of games to Android Auto may seem frivolous, it does provide several benefits, particularly for passengers who are waiting in the car or on long journeys. Here are some key advantages:

• Entertainment for Passengers: Games are a great way to keep kids or other passengers entertained during long drives or when waiting in the car.

• Enhanced Infotainment: As infotainment systems become more integral to the driving experience, games can add to the overall functionality of the system.

• Competitiveness with Tesla: By adding games to Android Auto, Google is tapping into a market that Tesla has long dominated. This could encourage more users to opt for Android Auto-equipped vehicles.

Challenges and Concerns

• Game Optimization: Early reports suggest that some games may not be fully optimized for Android Auto yet. For example, Angry Birds 2 failed to start, and Beach Buggy Racing still showed the tilt controls option, which may not be ideal for a stationary car.

• Distraction Concerns: Although the games are only available while parked, there are concerns that these features may further encourage distractions, especially with drivers trying to access the games while on the move.

How Is This Different from Tesla’s In-Car Gaming?

Tesla has been providing in-car gaming experiences for years, allowing users to play titles such as Cuphead and Beach Buggy Racing directly through the vehicle’s interface. However, Tesla has faced backlash for allowing games to be played while driving, leading to the removal of that feature in certain situations.

Android Auto’s approach, which limits gaming to when the vehicle is parked, ensures safety and minimizes distractions. It’s also likely that Google will eventually expand its selection of games, making Android Auto a more competitive option for car manufacturers.

FAQs About Android Auto’s Gaming Features

1. Can I play games on Android Auto while driving?
No, games are only available when your vehicle is parked. Google has implemented this feature to ensure safety while driving.

2. What games are available on Android Auto?
The initial games available on Android Auto include Farm Heroes Saga, Candy Crush Soda Saga, Angry Birds 2, and Beach Buggy Racing.

3. Why is Google adding games to Android Auto?
Google’s goal is to enhance the in-car experience and compete with Tesla, which has offered gaming features in its vehicles for years.

4. Will the games on Android Auto be optimized for my car?
Some games may not be fully optimized for Android Auto at launch. For instance, Angry Birds 2 did not function properly in early tests. However, Google is expected to improve game compatibility in future updates.

5. How do I access the games on Android Auto?
Once the update is installed, you can access the games from the app drawer in Android Auto. Simply choose a game to start playing while the vehicle is parked.

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