Android Auto has supported games (while parked) for a while now, though the selection of titles has been somewhat limited. Then, last year, Google began allowing more developers to launch their titles, though only a few were allowed to participate in the early access program. That’s changing now, as Google has officially opened the floodgates for more games to land on Android Auto.
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In a blog post addressing Android developers, Google said the games category for Android Auto, which has been in beta for developers so far, is now moving to general availability (via 9to5Google). The same milestone was also reached for the Android Automotive OS, an operating system built directly into automobiles.
The full list of Android Auto games is small now, but that could change soon
Source: Google
Google has also shared pages with the full list of games available on Android Auto and Android Automotive OS, with the latter offering substantially more games than Android Auto. But with more developers encouraged to publish for the platform, we can expect that number to jump considerably from the current tally of 29.
All games designed for Android Auto must adhere to strict rules, such as being playable only while the car is parked. Additionally, developers must make the game inaccessible and cut the audio when motion is detected for safety reasons. Meanwhile, users will need a smartphone running Android 15 or newer to access games on their car’s head unit.
Google lets developers add controller support, too, which should help you kill plenty of time while parked. More crucially, publishers are expected to build support for a variety of screen sizes and aspect ratios, while also accounting for landscape and portrait head units. These are key parts of the gaming experience, and Google wants to ensure titles run smoothly without compatibility issues on certain head units.
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While this milestone doesn’t change much for frequent Android Auto users right away, it helps ensure a steady flow of third-party games landing on the platform. Most existing games playable on Android Auto are designed for kids, and some were added earlier this year. However, that could change soon as more developers publish their games.
Most people who commute to work may not find enough time to sit back and play a game on their car’s head unit. But it’s always nice to have the option if you’re parked for a few minutes.