Summary
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Google Maps’ immersive 3D navigation UI is rolling out in Android Auto (for some users, it looks like a server-side update).
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The new UI shows clear 3D icons and custom trees for a more user-friendly interface.
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It’s unclear if the rollout is related to Android Auto v17.3; The iOS/CarPlay arrival timeline is unclear.
In March, Google revealed an overhaul of its Google Maps navigation system with a new user interface that the tech giant described at the time as immersive. While the update is already running CarPlay for some users, Android Auto has been left out of the fun — at least until now.
Reddit user radgatt on the r/AndroidAuto subreddit Google Maps’ new immersive navigation UI is available in their car via Android Auto. The screenshot they posted of the new UI shows its updated 3D design with better, clearer icons and of course custom trees.
Some users report seeing a new immersive UI after updating Android Auto
The update appears mostly on the server side
The new UI appears to have been rolled out alongside Android Auto v17.3, possibly server-side, as some users with the update report that it’s not yet available on their cars. With that in mind, even if you don’t have the latest version of Android Auto running on your device, your phone can still access Google Maps’ new immersive navigation UI.
It’s unclear when the update will roll out to iOS and CarPlay, but I’m guessing it’ll be at least a few weeks before it hits Apple’s smartphone. Has the update hit your Android device yet? Let us know in the comments.
In other navigation app news, Google recently released an update for Waze that makes the platform talk less with a new app. Less chat mode this allows you to listen to music and podcasts with fewer interruptions. In May, Google announced a comprehensive plan to transform Android Auto into a more unified car platform. updating core programs to Material 3 Expressive.
