Before the release of Android Auto 14.1, which supposedly triggered Games support, Google already made the announcement. However, the company didn’t say the gaming requirements or say when the feature will be available. Interestingly, the latest beta release didn’t bring support for Games, and the requirements are more than installing the latest build.
After users started seeing Games on their Android Auto when connected, we believed it was triggered by the Android Auto 14.1 beta build. It turns out both are not tied together. Those running stable Android Auto 14.0 are seeing supported games on their infotainment screen. Google has now clarified while providing requirements for games on Android Auto.
Android Auto Gaming Requirements
Because most people start seeing support for Games after installing Android Auto 14.1, we thought the support arrived with the build. It turns out that was not the case. According to Google via folks at 9to5Google, the latest beta build is not a requirement to start playing games on your car’s display. We understand many people are seeing support on stable Android Auto 14.0, which is now widely available.
You would expect support to be tied to the Android Auto version, but it’s based on your device’s operating system. Currently, you need Android 8+ to run Android Auto on your device. However, you need Android 15+ if you want to play games while your vehicle is put in park. Hence, if you are running the latest stable build, and on Android 15 OS, there’s a possibility to play games.
Works with compatible apps and games. Requires compatible mobile device running on Android 15+. Vehicle’s touch screen must be compatible with Android Auto. Vehicle must be in park to play. Sequences shortened and simulated.
How to play games on Android Auto using the car’s display
There are no extra downloads or things you need to do before you can play games. However, the car needs to be fully parked before supported games become active. While the car is in motion, the games are blacked out until you put the vehicle in park. Only a few cars are supported, but we expect a wider availability in the coming weeks.
Google likely introduced this feature with the intention of helping people pass the time while their vehicle is parked. While the idea is commendable and serves its purpose, it’s only a matter of time before someone figures out how to bypass the in-motion restriction. If that happens, it could undermine the whole concept and potentially endanger lives—especially if drivers start playing games while driving.
