Google brings Spotify Jam to Android Auto, paving the way for a wide-range of car-related updates.

Spotify Jam joins the ride

Google has unveiled a series of updates to its car infotainment systems, Android Auto and Android Automotive OS, as part of its I/O developer conference. Most notably, Spotify Jam is coming to Android Auto, giving users a more interactive way to enjoy music on the road.

The updates rely on Google’s “Car App Library”, and gives more freedom to developers as to how their apps can be used across its car platforms. Already, Spotify looks to be capitalizing. 

What is Spotify Jam and how does it work in the car?

Spotify Jam allows multiple users to jump into a shared queue session, without requiring a Bluetooth connection. Instead, users scan a QR code to join a Jam session, see what’s playing, and add tracks to the queue in real-time.

Now, Android Auto users will see a dedicated “Jam” button in the corner of the Now Playing screen. Tapping it will show a QR code for passengers to scan and join, view who’s in the current session, and even lets you remove people accordingly.

Image credits: Google

Such an integration makes it easy to imagine how it could enhance road trips with friends- helping you to easily create a collaborative music session without passing around one device.

Spotify’s updated Android Auto app will arrive “in the coming months”. Updates to other streaming apps like YouTube Music and Amazon Music are also expected, as developers look to tap into the improved capabilities of Google’s infotainment systems.

Other new features on Android Auto

Alongside Spotify Jam, a series of other upgrades are also coming to Android Auto and Android Automotive OS:

  • Quick Share support: Lets users add stops to a shared Google Maps route (for vehicles with Google built-in).
  • Light mode: A long-awaited feature which has been “in the works for years”.
  • Web browsers: Support for web apps when the vehicle is parked.
  • Weather apps: Helpful for providing updates on driving conditions.
  • Video apps: Support for video apps, which includes audio-only playback when driving.

Of course, video and gaming support will only be possible when the car is parked. 

Gaming apps are also in beta for Android Auto vehicles, while browser and video app support is already live in beta for vehicles with Google built-in. More widespread support is expected soon.

What’s next

While these changes may not be a game-changer for the music industry, it shows how tech companies are evolving the way we listen to music in the car. As infotainment systems become more advanced, artists, labels, and platforms alike may want to consider how their content fits into these spaces.

For now, it will be interesting to see what future updates lie in store for the likes of YouTube Music and Amazon Music.

Want to get your music heard within cars around the globe? Upload your music to Spotify and other streaming platforms worldwide for free with RouteNote.