Android Auto just got a redesigned music player UI

Android Auto, Google’s smart platform for cars, has been getting some new features in the last few weeks. This month, the v13.4 update brought a fresher look thanks to the implementation of Material You color accents throughout the OS. In a new development, Android Auto is getting a redesign of its classic music player.

The main goal of Android Auto is to make it easier to control multimedia, take calls, and access directions while driving without having to constantly take your eyes off the road. To do this, consistency in the design of key UI items is essential. For example, it’s important that all music player apps maintain practically the same playback UI. This way, you’ll be able to control the player without even looking at the screen once you memorize the position of the buttons.

Android Auto’s music player app receives a UI redesign

That’s exactly what happens on Android Auto, where multiple music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music share the same main playback UI. The last time Android Auto received a music player redesign was in 2023, and it has remained the same ever since. However, the latest update to the platform brought some changes for better usability.

In the new UI, the album art is now on the left side. On the right side, you’ll find the song’s name, the artist’s name, the song length, and the playback progress bar—in that order. Google has implemented a slightly smaller font to fit everything in less space. Below that section are the typical playback control buttons in a prominent size for easy access.

The UI should look similar across all music player apps

The screenshot below, courtesy of 9to5Google, shows what the new UI looks like on the Spotify app. However, it should be pretty similar across all other music player apps. You may still find some differences in the UI format depending on the size and DPI specs of your car display. The new design is already rolling out widely with the Android Auto v13.4 update.