Google Redesigns Play Store for Cars With Google Built-In
The redesigned interface adapts to screen orientation, with one-tap app downloads and navigation optimized for horizontal or vertical displays. Google is adding Starz, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar, plus parked YouTube playback for Premium subscribers.
Google announced in October 2026 that it is rolling out a redesigned Play Store for cars with Google built-in, updating the interface to automatically adapt to different screen sizes and orientations while making it easier to find and download apps.
The updated Play Store will feature apps on its homepage that can be downloaded with a single tap. A new navigation menu places “Apps,” “Games,” “Search,” and “More” options on the left side of the screen, or along the top for vehicles with vertically oriented displays. The update is rolling out over the coming weeks.
Alongside the interface changes, Google is adding new apps to the platform — including Starz, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar — available for use while parked. Google is also enabling YouTube video playback on the dashboard when a vehicle is parked, with audio continuing while driving. That feature is limited to YouTube Premium subscribers.
Cars with Google built-in is distinct from Android Automotive, Google’s infotainment operating system. The platform allows vehicle manufacturers to integrate Google services and support for native Android apps directly into their vehicles. Google first brought an early version of the integration to the Polestar 2, then expanded it to the Honda Accord Touring in 2023. Supported manufacturers now include Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, and Volvo, among others.
The Play Store update is part of a broader expansion of the platform. Google recently replaced Google Assistant with its Gemini AI across a range of supported vehicles, suggesting the company continues to extend the capabilities available to drivers through the built-in system.