Android Auto rolled out in 18 more countries, marking its biggest international rollout to date.
From the original availability in 11 countries, the list now reaches up to 29 countries including Brazil, Russia and India, some of the world's fastest growing auto markets.
Other countries that round up the list include Argentina, Venezuela, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, Peru, Chile, Paraguay, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Panama, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Austria.
In a tweet, Android also mentioned the launch of Android Auto in Puerto Rico.
"Full speed ahead. #AndroidAuto is now available in 18 new countries: AR AT BO BR CH CL CO CR DO EC GT IN PA PE PY RU UY VE , plus PR too!" says Android in a tweet, adding the flag emojis of each country where Android Auto is launched.
Google also rolled out a new version of the Android Auto app, which now has build number v1.6. The latest build finally addresses one of the huge issues found in the app since its original release in late 2014. According to Google, the new version will now allow users to browse their music collection with no fear of getting lockouts while their car is stopped.
Another notable feature brought by the latest build is the enhanced phone-car connection reliability, which can make it a whole lot easier for users to connect their smartphones and control apps through their cars' screens.
"Android Auto brings the most useful apps from your phone to your car's screen, optimized for glanceability and readability while driving," says Google in the app's description on Google Play. "Android Auto requires an active data connection to fully utilized these apps and may require updates to some of your existing apps, such as Google Maps, Google Play Music, or the Google Search app."
In order to start using Android Auto, users would need a compatible vehicle or aftermarket stereos and an Android device that runs 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher. There is also the need for a USB cable and, of course, the Android Auto companion app which users can download from the Google Play store.
Android Auto is compatible with a number of vehicles that include models from Audi, Buick, Cadillac,Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Holden, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, Opel, Seat, Skoda, Vauxhall, Volkswagen and Volvo.
The Mahindra XUV 500 is so far the first Indian car to come equipped with Android Auto support. The company is adding the same support to its new Scorpio.
As for aftermarket car audio systems, both Kenwood and Pioneer launched their own compatible systems with Android Auto. It is speculated that Pioneer will also launch its Android Auto compatible aftermarket car audio system in India.
