A new feature called Earth awaits Android Auto users. It will now be possible to add custom widgets to your car’s screen, allowing quicker access to certain applications.
It was Android Authority that discovered the Earth feature while analyzing the beta version 5.6.154404-release.daily of Android Auto, which drops support for several Xiaomi smartphones. For several years, users have complained about the limited widgets at the bottom of the screen.
With Earth, Android Auto is also customizable like a smartphone
Earth is different from the widgets located at the bottom of the screen. They do not cluster at the base of the interface but are situated on the main screen. This addresses concerns from users who regularly complain that it is impossible to see all the important icons in the lower area when there are too many.
Android Authority even activated Earth on their testing devices. Currently, the feature is still imperfect and requires fixes before it can be released to everyone. For example, in this trial version, only one widget can be placed on the home screen. When Android Authority selects a new widget, it automatically replaces the previous one.
So there are two theories: either Earth is not finished yet, or it is a deliberate restriction for road safety because a cluttered screen can divert attention. Android Auto is known for its safety choices while driving. It is highly probable that the Mountain View firm will adjust Earth based on feedback and safety testing before an official launch.
There are also many widgets that malfunction or do not display correctly on the main screen. Ironically, this issue also occurs with certain applications from Google itself. Horizontal widgets face optimization problems that make them unreadable or even unusable. These flaws will be addressed by Google to ensure an optimal user experience upon final deployment.
The configuration can be done via a new option called Customize Earth in the Android Auto settings. The menu allows you to choose your preferred widget from those on the connected Android smartphone. You can also select the size to adjust the display dimensions of the widget on the dashboard.
Source: Android Authority
