Android Auto’s latest beta brings full Android game support

The Verge - Mar 28th, 2025
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Google has introduced gaming support to Android Auto, allowing drivers to play popular games like Candy Crush Soda Saga and Angry Birds 2 from their car's touchscreen. This new feature is part of the beta version of Android 14.1, which is currently being tested. Only four games are supported at the moment, including Farm Heroes Saga and Beach Buggy Racing, and they can only be played while the vehicle is parked. The games need to be pre-installed on the user's phone, and they automatically close if the car is shifted out of park, ensuring safety.

This marks a significant expansion of Android Auto's capabilities, representing the first time fullscreen apps have been available on the platform. The move aligns Android Auto more closely with cars that have Google built-in, which already offer a range of games to play while parked. The gaming feature was announced during Google's March feature drop, although a public release date has not yet been announced. Previously, Android Auto included basic HTML5 games through Google’s GameSnacks service in 2021. This development not only enhances the entertainment options for parked drivers but also highlights Google's ongoing efforts to integrate more comprehensive software experiences into automotive environments.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and timely update on Google's introduction of gaming support to Android Auto, with accurate details about the games available and their functionality. However, it lacks depth in terms of source quality and transparency, as it does not cite authoritative sources or explain the methodology behind the claims. While the piece is balanced in its presentation, it could benefit from exploring additional perspectives, such as user feedback or expert analysis on safety and usability. The article is well-written and accessible, but it could be more engaging by incorporating diverse viewpoints and addressing potential controversies related to gaming in cars. Overall, it serves as a straightforward informational piece with room for improvement in sourcing and depth of analysis.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story accurately reports on Google's addition of gaming support to Android Auto, specifying games like Candy Crush Soda Saga and Angry Birds 2. It correctly mentions that these features are part of the Android Auto 14.1 beta version, which aligns with available information. The claim that only four games are supported is precise, as the story lists them correctly. The requirement for the games to be installed on the phone and only playable while parked is also corroborated by sources. However, the story could improve by providing specific details on the rollout timeline and the extent of fullscreen app support, which remain vague.

7
Balance

The article is primarily focused on the technical update from Google, presenting a straightforward account of the new features in Android Auto. It lacks diverse perspectives, such as user opinions or expert analysis on the implications of gaming in cars. The piece could be more balanced by discussing potential safety concerns or the impact on user experience. While it does mention the limitation of games only being playable while parked, it does not explore the rationale behind this decision or its reception among users.

8
Clarity

The article is written in clear, concise language, making it accessible to a general audience. It logically presents the information, starting with the main announcement and following with details about game availability and functionality. However, the piece could benefit from a more structured breakdown of the new features and their implications, which would aid reader comprehension. The tone remains neutral and factual, which supports clarity.

6
Source quality

The article does not cite any sources directly within the text, which affects its perceived reliability. It references 9to5Google's testing, suggesting some level of verification, but lacks a broader range of authoritative sources or direct quotes from Google representatives. Including statements from Google or experts in automotive technology would enhance the credibility and depth of the reporting.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of sourcing and methodology. It does not disclose how the information was obtained, whether through press releases, interviews, or firsthand testing. Additionally, the lack of attribution for specific claims, such as the number of games supported and the beta's availability, leaves readers without a clear understanding of the basis for these statements. Greater transparency would involve clarifying the origins of the information and any potential conflicts of interest.

Sources

  1. https://sammyguru.com/android-auto-14-1-beta-leta-you-play-games-on-your-car-display/
  2. https://www.androidheadlines.com/2025/03/android-auto-14-1-beta-support-android-games.html
  3. https://www.sammyfans.com/2025/03/28/android-auto-14-1-beta-brings-games-to-your-cars-screen/
  4. https://www.androidpolice.com/android-auto-141-brings-candy-crush-car-infotainment-screen/
  5. https://www.arenaev.com/games_hit_the_road_in_the_android_auto_141_beta-news-4561.php