Android Auto testing new media player layout with larger buttons

Google is testing a new design for the media controls in Android Auto. In the latest beta version (10.8), the media player gets a fresh look, making it easier to use while driving.

Instead of showing small buttons and album art on the side, the new layout places bigger buttons across the screen. The play/pause, next, and previous track controls are now centered, making them easier to tap. The seek bar also stretches across the bottom of the player, giving users a better view of track progress. Album artwork still shows but in a smaller size, and the background uses a blurred version of the same art, giving it a modern style.

This design update first appeared in Android Auto 11.4 beta and seems to still be in testing. Some users have reported seeing this new layout on their head units with version 11.4 or later. Google might be testing the feature through a server-side switch, so it may not appear for everyone yet, even if they have the beta installed.

While it’s not clear when or if this layout will roll out widely, the changes show that Google is focused on improving the Android Auto experience. Bigger buttons and a cleaner layout can make it safer and more convenient to control music while driving. For now, the update is limited to beta testers, and more changes might still come before the final version.