Android Auto updated for easier and safer use of home screen

Additionally, there’s some space between the notification cards that you can get to by swiping down from the top. Google recently slimmed down that list of apps, though, eliminating Google Play Games, Google Play Books, Google Play Newsstand, and Google+.

Sometimes OEMs like to install their own apps and services on their phones.

These new functions will allow you to interact with content without having to launch specific apps.

When companies want to make a new phone or tablet and use Google Android as an operating system there are certain apps that have to be installed as part of the agreement.

For those unfamiliar with the process, basically Google has requirements that OEM partners need to meet, and it used to be that Google’s suite of apps had to be preinstalled, which includes some of the apps we mentioned above. They are still in the Play Store, are still regularly updated and will work just as well for those of us who want them.

OEMs will still be required to install crucial apps such as Gmail, Maps, Google Search, Chrome and the Play Store. Is this a welcome change?