Android Auto 13.0 set to welcome third-party dialer apps

The Android Auto 13.0 code analysis reveals an upcoming new feature for cars. Developers have prepared the system to support third-party dialer apps, which is excellent news for Android Auto users who are not keen on the default Phone app.

Android Auto is not only used for car navigation and music playback, such as through Google Maps and Spotify. Voice control is also essential, especially as a hands-free system for making phone calls. Since its inception, Android Auto has only supported calls using the phone app from the Android stock. However, this may soon change.

As noted by Android Authority, based on the APK code analysis of the latest Android Auto 13.0, the system suggests preparations for supporting third-party dialers. In practice, Android Auto will allow calls to be made differently than before, affecting both the "calling app" functionality and interface.

Currently, it's difficult to predict when support for additional dialers will appear on car screens. Android Auto updates primarily server-side, so the deployment of the new option may not coincide with the release of the next app version on users' phones. Often, new features are enabled only for users with the latest or one of the most recent versions of Android Auto.

We also expect the activation of a new feature for managing "local media" in cars in the near future. This includes controlling FM radio or playing music stored on the car's hard drive or when a USB drive is connected. The latest release of Android Auto 13.0 confirms that this feature is being developed in the background, and we will likely see it activated in the coming weeks or months.