Android Auto continues to evolve And its 14.1 beta has brought one of the most curious and unexpected surprises: the ability to play video games from the car's screen. Although it sounds like science fiction or something limited to Teslas, it is now possible to do so on certain vehicle models and with some specific titles. If you're eager to try this feature or simply want to know How to download the Android Auto 14.1 beta, you are in the right place.
In this article we explain in detail all the new features of this version., what games you can enjoy while your car is parked, how to install the Android Auto 14.1 beta on your phone, and what you should keep in mind before trying out this new feature. Plus, we've compiled everything published by the most highly ranked media outlets on Google, adding tips and context so you don't miss a thing.
Android Auto 14.1 beta: What is it and why does it matter?
Google has begun to deploy the Android Auto 14.1 beta version, just a few days after the stable release of Android Auto 14.0. Although this is not a final version, it has already become the focus of attention because introduces full video games within the car's interfaceThis means that while you're parked, you can access titles you already have installed on your phone from the center screen.
The big news is not only that there are games, but that you can play in full screen., with a new, customized interface that includes elements such as a gesture to exit the game, swiping from the top of the screen in the style of standard Android. This represents a further step in the convergence between mobile devices and vehicle infotainment systems.
Games compatible with Android Auto 14.1
For now, the list of supported titles is quite short, but enough to experience the functionality:
- Angry Birds 2
- Beach Buggy Racing
- Candy Crush Soda Saga
- Farm Heroes Saga
These games automatically appear in the list of apps within Android Auto, as long as you have previously installed them on your smartphone. There's no special configuration required: just install the beta and have the games already present on your mobile..
Current limitations
Before you get your hopes up too much, you should keep in mind that Games can only be run if the car is completely stoppedAs soon as motion is detected, the system disables the games, grays out their icons, and prevents them from being opened. It is not possible to play while driving., not even as a co-pilot.
Furthermore, the experience still it is not completely polishedSome reports indicate performance issues, slow touch response, and in some cases, games not even launching at all. For example, Angry Birds 2 gets stuck requesting internet connection, while others like Beach Buggy Racing show controls that are inadequate for the car's environment (such as the use of the accelerometer).
This makes sense if we think that The developers have not yet adapted their games 100% to the new interface and special requirements of Android Auto.
How to download Android Auto 14.1 beta?
There are two ways to access a beta version of Android Auto. The most traditional is to sign up for the Google Play beta tester program, but unfortunately it is almost always full. The fastest and most direct alternative is Download the APK from a trusted repository like APKMirror.
Here's how to do it:
- Accede to APKMirror from your browser.
- Search for “Android Auto 14.1” and make sure it’s a beta version with an official signature.
- Download the APK file corresponding to your architecture (arm64-v8a, x86, etc.).
- Activate Unknown Origins on your mobile from Settings > Security.
- Open the downloaded APK and follow the installation process.
Once installed, when you connect your device to the car, if everything works correctly, You'll see the new games available in the Android Auto app menu., as long as the vehicle is stationary. If you're interested in more details about the differences between versions, You can read about version 13.8.
Is it safe to install this APK?
Yes, as long as you download from repositories recognized as APKMirror who review the file and publish only files officially signed by Google. These files They are free of malware and update the system app directly., so you don't need to delete previous versions.
Of course, remember that since this is a beta, may contain bugs or unstable behavior. Therefore, if you have a second phone, it's best to test it on it before using it on your main phone.
What other new features are expected in Android Auto?
This new version not only anticipates a more playful approach. References to The integration of Gemini, Google's AI assistant, into the Android Auto ecosystemAlthough it's not yet actively available, code teardowns have revealed strings of text that point to its imminent arrival.
This could lead to a significant improvement in voice interaction, including message summaries, contextual suggestions, or even personalized reminders. However, for now, The active assistant is still Google Assistant.
Under-the-hood improvements in Android Auto 14 and 14.1
On a technical level, both the stable version 14.0 and the beta version 14.1 include changes that improve compatibility with more infotainment systems and mobile devices. They have been solved Connection failures with some customization layers such as HyperOS 2.0, and wireless connectivity aspects have also been improved.
On the other hand, Wallet begins to integrate more closely with Android Auto to manage digital keys for compatible vehicles, although this functionality is not yet available on all models and makes.
Finally, some of the system's language has been updated, changing "car" to "vehicle," which could indicate future compatibility with motorcycles and other modes of transportation.
Is it worth installing Android Auto 14.1?
If you are a technology lover and you like to be among the first to try new things, Yes, Android Auto 14.1 is worth experimenting with.Not just for the games, but for the experience of seeing how a tool that's already essential for millions of drivers evolves.
However, if you rely on Android Auto daily for tasks like navigation or media playback and don't want to risk crashes or unexpected shutdowns, It may be better to wait for a stable version to be released. with all bugs fixed.
With this new update, Google seems to be taking a significant step toward turning Android Auto into something more than just mirroring your phone on your car's screen. Although the gaming feature is still in its infancy, there's already a solid foundation to build upon. The fact that it runs directly from games installed on your smartphone without any additional configuration is a plus.
For now, the experience may be limited and uneven, but it's clear that the future of Android Auto will be increasingly interactive, customizable, and fun. Share this information so more users will know about this new feature..