Danny Weber
20:22 30-03-2026
© A. Krivonosov
Google rolls out YouTube support in Android Auto with audio-only playback controls, requiring YouTube Premium for background playback. A step toward full video apps.
Google has started rolling out YouTube support in Android Auto, but it's not a full-fledged video service for cars yet. The new feature is much more modest than users anticipated.
According to user reports, YouTube now appears in the media control section alongside music controls. Through the Android Auto interface, you can pause videos, switch clips, and manage playback—but only in audio format. There's no dedicated YouTube app in the system, meaning you can't watch videos, search for content, or play clips on the car's screen. Essentially, it mirrors playback controls from your phone, making it easier to listen to content like podcasts or long videos on the go.
There's a catch: the feature requires a YouTube Premium subscription because it relies on background playback. Even the lighter Premium Lite tier supports it, broadening accessibility for more users.
Despite its limited functionality, this update could be a significant step forward. Google has previously announced plans to add full video app support to Android Auto, at least while parked. The introduction of basic YouTube controls suggests the company is gradually moving in that direction.