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Google has moved the games category for Android Auto and Android Automotive OS out of beta and into general availability. Developers can now submit compatible titles to Google Play’s open testing and production tracks, while drivers can use supported games only when their vehicles are parked.
A Wider Publishing Route
The change turns in-car gaming from an early-access category into a standard publishing option for eligible developers. Google already provides a collection of supported games for Android Auto and vehicles running Android Automotive OS with Google built in, but general availability opens the category to more compatible releases through Google Play.
Games run on the vehicle’s display rather than requiring players to use the phone screen. Touch input is supported on car displays, and developers may also add support for a connected game controller.
Strict Parked-Only Limits
Gameplay remains restricted to times when the vehicle is parked, such as while its occupants wait in a parking area or for charging to finish. Games are blocked once driving begins, and Google requires their audio to stop at that point. The audio cannot simply be resumed while the car is moving.
Requirements for Developers
For Android Auto, the connected device must run Android 15 or newer to support in-car games. Each title must also accommodate the car form factor and satisfy Google’s requirements before it can appear on Google Play for cars.
Google is asking developers to design for the varied dimensions of vehicle displays and to preserve game state between sessions. A compatible title should be able to restore a player’s previous position after it is closed and reopened, rather than forcing every parked session to begin again.
Who the Change Affects
The expansion gives game developers another screen category to target, but it does not make every Android game automatically available in cars. Developers still need to adapt their titles, meet Google’s review conditions and account for controls, display variation and interruptions caused by the vehicle moving.
Source: Google officially opens the door to more games on Android Auto
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