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Google’s Android Auto recently released an update titled “8.7.1302 Beta Hotfix.” In this update, Android boasts several exciting features. The most surprising part is that WhatsApp calls are now supported, which users did not expect. Not only is WhatsApp supported, but many additional features are included in this update.

For example, you can now share your digital car keys with others. Even though the upcoming update for Android Auto is widely known, some users may need to be made aware of it. So, let’s discuss all of the features in more detail.

Google has released Android Auto 8.7.1302 Beta Hotfix: Everything You Need to Know About It.

Starting with a short introduction, Android Auto is a mobile app developed by Google to mirror your Android phone on your car’s infotainment system. This system requires you to connect your phone to your vehicle via a USB cable. However, depending on your car’s infotainment system, you can connect to it through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

I hope you now have a brief understanding of Android Auto. Then, you should know what’s new in the most recent 8.7.1302 beta hotfix. We have compiled below all the potential features coming in update 8.7.1302.

Cool walk: A New UI for Android Auto Improves the App

A redesigned UI for Android Auto makes the app better. The Coolwalk UI will make the app easier to use. Now, you can run multiple applications at the same time. Google Maps is now in the driver’s seat. The media card has been redesigned with an app dock and an improved Google Assistant. Android Auto has gotten a completely revamped look with the updated version.

WhatsApp calling is now available on Android Auto.

Now, with Android Auto, you can even make WhatsApp calls. Just as you do from your phone, you can also call WhatsApp from your car. However, this feature is currently only available on Pixel and Samsung devices. But, after a long time, WhatsApp Calling has finally come to Android Auto.

Share digital car keys.

Digital car keys are special keys that allow the car owner to use their car’s entertainment system when permitted by them. With Android Auto’s updated update, car owners can now share their digital keys with friends and family. All you need to do is open the wallet app, open the digital car key, tap Share Key, and select the user with whom you want to share.

“Material You Design: A New Feature in Android Auto”

There is a built-in feature in Android Auto that allows you to customize the materials you design. This newly introduced setting will enable you to modify the menu style and the options that appear there. However, it is part of the beta program—users who want this need to enroll in the beta program and benefit from it. I thank the developers for adding such a new feature.

Dark Theme: A New Option for Android Auto Users

Indeed, most users do not prefer using dark themes, but according to a study, almost half of the userbase prefers dark themes for Android Auto. This is because it looks much better than a basic theme. Furthermore, Android Auto’s new update comes with a dark theme that you can enable in the in-app settings.

Join the Beta Program

After reading about these features, you may wonder where to join the beta program. As already mentioned, some parts are currently in beta and can only be accessed from there. To join the beta program, users can follow the steps below:

Note: If you want to update your Android Auto app, you can follow the same steps except for steps 1 and 2. You can also download it by following the same steps but instead of updating, tap on the “install” option.

To beta test Android Auto:

  1. Visit the opt-in page.
  2. Choose “Become a Tester.”
  3. Click on the Google Play store and search for Android Auto.
  4. Tap on the first result and update your Android Auto app to the beta version.

That’s it; you’re done.

The Android Auto app is directly downloadable from the Google Play Store. However, some users need help downloading it. So, below you will find some instructions for downloading Android Auto 8.7.1302 via an APK file:

  1. Download the Android Auto 8.7.1302 APK file here.
  2. Next, head to your device settings and enable the installation of apps from unknown sources.
  3. Now tap on the downloaded APK file and install it.
  4. Once it is installed, launch the Android Auto app and enjoy the enhanced features.

That’s it; you’re done.

Finally, we hope you are familiar with the Android Auto 8.7.1302 update. This article explains how to participate in the beta, what’s new, and how to download the APK file. If anyone has questions about the topic, please feel free to reach out below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do I use Android Auto?

Ans. You can refer to the above guide.

Q2. What phones work with Android Auto

Ans. All Android phones with Android 11 or above.

Q3. Is Android Auto free?

Ans. It is completely free to download.

Q4. What exactly does Android Auto do?

Ans. It mirrors your phone to your car’s infotainment system.

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