Google Maps has rolled out significant interface changes for its Android Auto application, drawing criticism from users who report a decline in navigation convenience despite the addition of a new incident reporting tool.
The most notable change involves the removal of music playback controls from the bottom of the Android Auto interface while GPS is active. Users can no longer pause or skip songs with a single tap.
Accessing music functions now requires users to either employ screen sharing or open the specific music application separately. This adds multiple steps to what was previously an immediate action.
Another significant alteration affects GPS voice controls. What was once a unified option for managing voice commands (off, notifications only, or fully on) has been fragmented.
Google has reportedly separated and reallocated these controls across different parts of the interface. This redesign forces users to divert their attention from the road for longer periods to adjust settings.
Conversely, one feature has seen improvement: incident reporting. The new interface allows users to report road incidents more directly and quickly, reducing the need for multiple taps or navigating through secondary menus.
This streamlined incident reporting capability mirrors a feature long present in navigation apps like Waze. Its implementation appears to have necessitated the relocation or removal of other, established controls.
User feedback indicates widespread dissatisfaction with these interface updates. Many perceive the changes as detrimental to the overall user experience, particularly concerning ease of use during navigation.
These modifications specifically impact individuals using Google Maps through the Android Auto interface, typically displayed on a car’s screen. The changes are expected to be permanent.