Android Auto prepares support for Google Pixel’s Magic Cue & Proactive Assistance

Google is apparently preparing to bring Proactive Assistance – also known as “Magic Cue” – from its Pixel phones over to Android Auto, which could be a really useful addition.

About APK Insight: In this “APK Insight” post, we’ve decompiled the latest version of an application that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (called APKs, in the case of Android apps), we’re able to see various lines of code within that hint at possible future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not ever ship these features, and our interpretation of what they are may be imperfect. We’ll try to enable those that are closer to being finished, however, to show you how they’ll look in case that they do ship. With that in mind, read on.

In the first Android Auto 17.9 beta release (and also the latest v17.8 stable release), Google has added strings pointing directly to Proactive Assistance / Magic Cue being added to the platform.

Magic Cue debuted on the Pixel 10 series before being rebranded as Proactive Assistance on the Pixel 11 series. Functionality here is all about delivering information proactively. Some examples include a chip in Google Messages with flight information when the conversation calls for it, pulling in Google Maps listings when a restaurant name is mentioned, showing conflicting calendar events, and more.

Google previously announced that Magic Cue would be coming to Android Auto in May of this year, but there have been no updates on a release timeline since. The strings added in these latest versions suggest it is actively being worked on and could roll out in the not-too-distant future.

• <string name=”settings_magic_cue_description”>With Magic Cue, Gemini can show you personalized, time-saving suggestions</string>
• <string name=”settings_magic_cue_manage_settings_link”>Manage Magic Cue settings</string>
• <string name=”settings_magic_cue_title”>Get Gemini suggestions in your car</string>
• <string name=”settings_proactive_assistance_description”>With Proactive Assistance, Gemini can show you personalized, time-saving suggestions</string>
• <string name=”settings_proactive_assistance_manage_settings_link”>Manage Proactive Assistance settings</string>

Google showed Magic Cue on Android Auto with the ability to interact with notifications such as sending a Google Maps address in a message reply.

With Proactive Assistance / Magic Cue still limited to Pixel phones, it stands to reason that the Android Auto integration will likely also be limited to pairing a Pixel phone to your car. It’s unclear when this might roll out.

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