CES 2023 brings a lot of good news, new products, and new technologies. A part of Google's CES 2023 announcement was geared toward Android Auto, and the company finally released the redesigned version of Android Auto for everyone. The company also announced some partnerships and exclusive features.
Google revealed that users of the latest Pixel and Samsung smartphones can make WhatsApp calls directly via Android Auto. Right now, consumers can only make traditional voice calls via Android Auto, but going forward, they can make voice calls via VoIP apps. If the feature becomes successful, the company could bring the same capability to other communication apps.
WhatsApp calling via Android Auto could come to older Galaxy and Pixel smartphones, and eventually to smartphones from other Android OEMs. If you can remember, Google shut down Android Auto for phone screens, so you would only be able to use a car-optimized version of Android if your vehicle has an Android Auto-compatible infotainment system.
The other new features of the new version of Android Auto include message replies with suggestions, a card-based split-screen UI for improved productivity, missed call reminders, arrival time sharing with contacts, suggestions for music playlists and podcasts, and full-screen navigation with Google Maps.