Android Auto Adds New Button To Quickly Log Out To Car Infotainment System

Android Auto, an infotainment platform specifically designed for Android smartphone users in the vehicle. (photo: x @madeintechfr)

JAKARTA - Google is again presenting a small but useful update to Android Auto, its custom-designed infotainment platform for Android smartphone users inside the vehicle. In the latest update that has emerged for a number of users, Android Auto now displays a new button that allows drivers to exit the Android Auto system and return to their original interface of their car with just one tap.

So far, Android Auto has provided the option to return to the original car system via the app drawer (app cap). However, this option is not the fastest to access, especially when driving and needs to quickly switch to radio control, car settings, or other built-in functions. Now, the new buttons that appear in the corner of the screen are close to the time, signal, and battery icons provide a more practical and faster solution.

The button allows users to go straight back to the main view of the car's built-in infotainment system without having to search for the menu first. This is very useful, especially for vehicles that do not have physical buttons or buttons on the screen to switch out of Android Auto.

According to reports from various users on Reddit, this feature has been seen in a number of Toyota vehicles that do not provide the original option to exit Android Auto. A user even mentioned that the button appeared in his Hyundai car about a month ago before it finally disappeared. There was also a Lexus driver who reported the presence of a similar feature.

Even so, this feature does not appear to be widely available. It is not clear whether Google is conducting a limited trial or if the button is only compatible with certain types of vehicles. Not all cars got it, and some users who previously saw the button also reported that the button was then lost without an official update.

The presence of this button can really help drivers who don't have easy access to their original car system when Android Auto is active. With just one tap, they can switch directly to radio controls, vehicle navigation, or other important features without having to close or reset Android Auto.

There has been no official statement from Google regarding the launch of this new button, but if this feature gets a positive response, it is likely to be rolled out more widely in the future.