Android Auto 18 beta reveals Google's next big car makeover

Google seems to be getting ready for its major Android Auto upgrade, and its latest beta offers more clues about what drivers can expect from the platform.

Android Auto 18.0 beta is now out, and it includes strong hints about a new interface codenamed “Cielo,” along with changes related to Gemini and work notifications, according to an APK teardown by Android Sage.

The update doesn’t introduce a major visual overhaul just yet. However, the findings suggest Google is making progress on its redesign to eventually replace the “Coolwalk” interface currently used by Android Auto.

Android Auto could be getting a fresh look

Coolwalk was Google’s last major redesign of the Android Auto interface. It introduced a more flexible layout designed to make navigation, media controls, and other information easier to access while driving. Now, Google appears to be preparing its next big interface update.

Android Auto 18.0 beta includes a new asset called “cielo_launcher.” This is believed to be tied to the app launcher in Google’s upcoming Cielo interface, suggesting development has progressed beyond the groundwork spotted in earlier versions.

Google previously teased its next-generation Android in-car experience with a more expressive design, glanceable widgets, and layouts that adapt to different infotainment screen sizes. The new interface could also accommodate different display orientations for left- or right-hand-drive vehicles.

Gemini could become more personal in your car

The beta also contains new text strings for Gemini personalization, including an onboarding message informing users that the feature is ready to use in their car. We had spotted these strings before (see image above) as well, along with two new styles for the Quick Settings UI on screens of different sizes.

These additions suggest Google is getting ready to let drivers use Gemini with personal information from services such as Gmail and Google Calendar.

The changes are still a work in progress, so it’s unclear exactly which personal data Gemini will be able to access in Android Auto or how Google will present the necessary permissions.

Meanwhile, we also recently spotted Google working on a new animation for Gemini in Android Auto.

Changes for drivers with work phones and new fonts

Another potentially useful addition is support for Android Work Profiles. Android Sage found new icons representing an active or paused Work Profile, hinting that Google could eventually let drivers manage work-related notifications directly through Android Auto.

If implemented, this could be particularly useful for people who use the same phone for work and personal activities.

However, the new icons alone don’t confirm that an in-car Work Profile toggle is coming. Google has yet to announce such a feature or explain how it would work.

Android Auto 18.0 beta also adds Google Sans Flex, a variable font that can adjust characteristics such as weight and width. This could help Google make text more readable across infotainment screens of different sizes and shapes.

Google has also removed more than 200 obsolete resources, including older dialpad layouts and legacy Coolwalk components. This points to ongoing efforts to streamline the app as Google prepares its next-generation experience.

For now, Android Auto 18.0 beta is more about laying the groundwork than delivering features drivers can use immediately. But between the Cielo launcher, Gemini personalization, and potential Work Profile controls, Google appears to be preparing several meaningful changes to the platform.

If you’re interested in checking out the new beta, you can sign up for the Android Auto beta program here.