After years of waiting, Google Maps is finally incorporating two highly requested features into Android Auto : an integrated speedometer and immersive navigation. These new features, already available in the mobile version and Waze, are now coming to the car's infotainment system to make driving safer and more intuitive.
The rollout of these features has already begun, albeit gradually. Some drivers in Europe can already see the speedometer on their vehicle's screen , while immersive navigation is still being developed. Both improvements are part of Google's commitment to updating its Maps app for in-car use.
Speedometer: a piece of information that was sorely missed
The speedometer appears in the bottom right corner of the screen and displays the vehicle's current speed along with the speed limit for that road . While it might seem like a minor detail, having this information on the map eliminates the need to look at the instrument cluster and helps drivers avoid exceeding speed limits. Google has offered this feature in the Maps mobile app since 2019 and in Waze for years, but it was a feature that Android Auto users had been requesting for some time.
According to initial reports, the speedometer is being rolled out gradually from Google's servers , so simply having the latest version of the app isn't enough. Some drivers participating in the beta program have already seen it, while others with the same version haven't yet. It's expected to reach more users in the coming weeks, including those in Spain.
Immersive navigation: 3D maps for more realistic driving
The other major innovation is immersive navigation, which transforms the traditional map into a three-dimensional representation of the surroundings. Buildings are displayed in 3D, lanes are shown with precision, and features such as pedestrian crossings and road markings appear . Furthermore, the icon indicating the vehicle's position changes from the classic blue arrow to a new, more realistic design. All of this makes it easier to navigate complex intersections or unfamiliar areas.
This feature was first introduced to the mobile version of Google Maps in 2023, but now it's coming to cars. Immersive navigation is initially available only in Android Auto , not in the mobile app when used outside the vehicle. Google has begun rolling it out to a small group of users and expects it to expand further in the coming months.
With these two additions, Google Maps on Android Auto takes a step forward in safety and convenience. The speedometer and immersive navigation respond to drivers' requests and demonstrate that the app continues to evolve to adapt to the car environment. Although the rollout is gradual, the wait has certainly been worthwhile.
