Google may soon introduce home screen widgets to Android Auto, potentially bringing one of Android’s most popular customization features directly to vehicle dashboards.
The upcoming feature was reportedly spotted inside the latest Android Auto app update, where hidden code and interface elements hint at a dedicated widget system currently under development. The discovery was first reported by Android Authority.
Android Auto Could Soon Support Widgets
It looks like the new feature will operate in the same manner as the existing home screen widget option for Android.
The leaked interface screenshots indicate that “Car Widgets” may soon be a new category within the Settings application.
By enabling the option, users will be able to choose their desired widget from a widget selection interface similar to the existing option on Android Mobile Devices.
While it has not been confirmed what widgets will be available on Autowas car or Android Auto at the time being, the report does indicate that:
- Calendar previews
- Countdown timers
- Battery stats
- Physical activity tracking widgets
- Other quick-access tools
This new feature will give users even more customization options while driving as they receive real-time information from their Android mobile device.
Feature Appears After Gemini AI Rollout
The reported widget development comes shortly after Google expanded its Gemini AI integration for Android Auto users worldwide.
Google has been steadily upgrading Android Auto with smarter assistant features, cleaner layouts, and improved voice controls. Widgets could become the next major usability upgrade for the in-car interface.
Google I/O 2026 Could Bring Official Announcement
While there’s nothing confirmed from Google that they’re developing this feature, there are some hints in the code which has been leaked.
This has led to speculation around whether they’ll announce this feature at their I/O conference in 2026 (on May 19th & 20th).
At this event, they typically unveil major updates to the Android ecosystem, including changes related to Android Auto, AI tools, and other mobile software features.
Space Management Could Be the Biggest Challenge
One major question surrounding the feature is how widgets will fit on Android Auto displays without creating a cluttered interface.
Unlike smartphones, Android Auto screens have limited space, especially when apps like navigation are active. Apps such as Google Maps already occupy a large portion of the dashboard display during active driving sessions.
Google will likely need to carefully balance usability, visibility, and safety before officially rolling out widgets widely.
Over the past few years, Android Auto has evolved from a simple projection interface into a much more interactive driving platform.
The reported addition of widgets suggests Google is now focusing heavily on personalization and dashboard productivity, giving drivers quicker access to important information without switching between multiple apps.
If officially launched, widgets could become one of the biggest interface changes in recent years.
Also Read: Google Maps Tests Centered View And New Power-Saving Mode For Android Auto
