Android Auto Media Apps Get a Fresh, Customizable Look

Tired of the same old look for your music and podcast apps on Android Auto? Well, get ready for a change! Google just announced some exciting new features for media apps at Google I/O 2025.

Goodbye Cookie-Cutter, Hello Flexibility

Let’s face it, most media apps on Android Auto have looked pretty similar. That’s because the platform’s templates haven’t offered a lot of room for customization. While this consistency was nice, it also meant developers couldn’t really spice things up with unique features.

Two New Templates for a More Personalized Experience

But Google is changing that! They’re rolling out two brand new templates specifically designed for media apps: the SectionedItemTemplate and the MediaPlaybackTemplate.

SectionedItemTemplate: More Sections, More Control

This template gives developers the ability to add more sections to the browsing UI. Think of it like adding a ‘Recent Searches’ section above your usual ‘Albums’ section. It’s all about giving you more control over how you access your media.

MediaPlaybackTemplate: Reimagine Your Now Playing Screen

Then there’s the MediaPlaybackTemplate, which focuses on the ‘Now Playing’ screen. This template offers more flexibility over the layout and controls. Google showed off an example where the playback controls were moved to the left side of the screen instead of the center, proving that developers can really get creative.

What This Means for You

These new templates mean a more personalized and dynamic Android Auto experience. Get ready to see media apps with fresh layouts, unique features, and a whole lot more control over how you interact with your music and podcasts.