Android Auto 15.2 beta: real-world updates, bug fixes, and installation guide

In recent weeks, Google has stepped on the accelerator with Android Auto: branch 15 is chaining releases and the Version 15.2 beta is now available among those participating in the testing program. While the number suggests a significant jump, the reality is that, at first glance, there are no disruptive changes to the interface or any eye-catching features. connect it to the car.

Now, just because there are no new features doesn't mean things are still the same. Under the hood, some changes have been made. Stability, compatibility, and bug fixes that underpin the experience, while Google keeps other desired improvements in internal testing, such as clear mode or the arrival of Gemini. If you're considering updating to the 15.2 beta, here's everything you need to know, with installation steps, risks, known errors and features on the horizon.

Android Auto 15.2 beta: what's changed and what's still pending

After testing the 15.2 beta against 15.1, the most honest thing to say is that there are no relevant visible modificationsThe car's interface hasn't been redesigned, and when you invoke the assistant, the Google Assistant continues to appear instead of Gemini. This fits with Google's usual dynamic: first consolidate and then gradually implement aesthetic or usability changes.

The expected light mode It's still in testing and, for now, can only be forced internally via indicators in Play Services; there's no official toggle available to users. This restriction reflects the gradual rollout and Google's preference for further fine-tuning before making it public for all cars and phones.

Where there are signs of movement is in small graphic details. A renewal of icons with transparent outline which appears, for now, in a localized manner when connecting certain Samsung devices with One UI. It's not a global or definitive change, but it shows that the visual area continues to be refined without breaking the current design.

In parallel, and although not active for the user, the code of the 15.1/15.2 branch leaves clues, accessible through internal flags, from the Material 3 Expressive On the way. This design language, which Google is expanding throughout the Android ecosystem, is reportedly hidden behind internal flags and could appear in Android Auto once compatibility is broad and the experience is well established.

Another clue found in the beta suggests that when Gemini makes the jump, will have access to the precise location To improve directions. Google summarizes it as the option to share your location with digital assistants for more refined navigation. For now, however, everything remains in the realm of preparation rather than an open launch.

Bug fixes and stability improvements

The real focus of these iterations is to make the platform run smoothly in more cars and phones. In the official Android Auto community, Google reports that Audio errors during connection have now been resolved y Problems with 5 GHz WiFi networksThese types of incidents, although less noticeable than a new feature, make a difference in everyday life.

In addition, in the transition from 14.x to 15, the company would have fine-tuned critical issues: intermittent Bluetooth disconnections, sound cuts in apps like Spotify and performance optimizations for reduce overheating from the phone when it's plugged into the car. These are unglamorous, but vital, improvements in a driving system.

Not everything is fixed yet. The problem is still being investigated. black screen after connecting the mobile that some users report, and there are specific incidents in recent models such as Google Pixel 9 y Samsung Galaxy S25Google acknowledges these issues and assures us that it's working on a solution, so it's a good idea to stay tuned for minor corrective updates.

In parallel, it is worth remembering a precedent that illustrates where the team is aiming: In a previous beta (11.2) there appeared a high temperature alert which suggested turning off the mobile screen if it got too hot. Although that function was not consolidated immediately, is the type of protection you would expect when the goal is to prevent pulling, closing, and premature wear of the hardware.

Pitching rate: 14.9 to 15.2 in a flash

The jump from 14.9 beta to 15 came in a matter of days and from there the cadence of 15.0, 15.1 and 15.2 It's been short. The company is stacking builds with a short distance between them to consolidate compatibility and stability, a sign that it wants to clear the ground before activating the most visible new features.

This pattern, while it may be unexciting for those expecting big announcements, leaves a more solid foundation for the features in testing (light mode, new icons, Material 3 Expressive or the integration of Gemini) are launched without any surprises. There is no official date for the stable version, but it is normal that, if no critical bugs arise, the transition from the beta channel to the general channel will occur in few weeks.

How to update to Android Auto 15.2 beta

There are two ways: the ideal one, through Google Play if you are already in the beta program; and the alternative, manually installing the APK signed by Google from a trusted repository. First, it's important to be clear about the program's status and the risks of each method.

First, the Android Auto beta program It has been closed for years New signups generally, but there's an official process to get in when there's space, and sometimes there's a "trick" if you get a temporary spot. If you're already a member, the update will arrive like any other from the Play Store, and you won't need to do anything different.

If you're not logged in, you can choose to install the APK. In this case, you'll need to make sure the file is digitally signed by Google: if it's modified, the system would block the system app from updating. Repositories like APK Mirror publish original packages, and to install them you'll need a bundle installer (the APK Mirror app is a convenient option).

1. Open your mobile browser and Download the Android Auto 15.2 APK beta from a trusted repository (e.g. APK Mirror).
2. Install an app capable of managing APKs in bundles. The official tool of APK Mirror It is usually the simplest.
3. Run the downloaded file, Choose the APK Mirror installer and accept the update to bring Android Auto up to date.
4. If your phone is recent, it is most likely ARM64; choose the appropriate variant if the repository offers multiple architectures.

Important for safety: Google's security team periodically reminds us that the way is really It is safe to update from the Play Store. Downloading APKs from unofficial sources can expose you to vulnerabilities such as CVE-2025-3278, exploited in fake betas. Although APK Mirror verifies signatures, Google strictly recommends not installing APKs outside of its store.

Beta Program: How to Join, Leave, and Submit Feedback

For those who still see the option to enter the beta, the official process is straightforward. The Android Auto test page allows you to choose “Becoming a tester” And from there, just go to Google Play and update to the trial version. If the button doesn't appear or the quota is full, you'll have to wait for Google to expand the number of spots.

1. Go to the official Android Auto beta testing page.
2. Press on Become a tester.
3. Open Google Play and update Android Auto to beta.

Remember that betas may be less stable and some function may fail. If you want to leave the program, The reverse process is also simple: go to the unsubscribe page and select Exit the program; in the next update you will return to the stable branch.

1. Access the opt-out page.
2. Choose Exit the program and wait for the Play Store to serve you the stable version.

As a tester, your feedback is gold. Google encourages submit problem reports Just like they happen in the car, with contextual details. It's no longer necessary to enable developer mode to submit reports, which greatly facilitates the process and helps fixes arrive faster.

Is it worth installing the 15.2 beta right now?

It depends on your profile. If you're someone who enjoys testing before anyone else and accepts minor glitches, 15.2 strengthens stability and compatibility and may give you a more well-rounded experience. If, on the other hand, you rely on Android Auto daily to work or move, The sensible thing is to wait for the stable: You'll avoid encountering sporadic errors, black screens, or disconnections that, although rare, still affect some users.

On security, conservative advice is clear: Play Store first. If you choose to install manually, verify the signature and origin of the APKThere's no catch: the benefit of arriving a few hours or days early to a test build doesn't outweigh the risk of loading a modified version if you don't take extreme precautions.

What features are coming next: clues and expectations

There are consistent signs that Google is preparing changes that will be made once the foundation is firmly established. The most anticipated is Gemini as an assistant inside the car, which could leverage precise location to improve navigation and contextual responses. For now, when you invoke the assistant, Google Assistant still appears, and Gemini isn't displayed in the driving experience.

It also continues its course light mode. Although it has already been seen in the code and some internal switches, in the user screens does not appear in a stable form. The idea is offer a brighter visual alternative, always respecting the conditions of use while driving and the brightness and contrast settings of the car.

In parallel, expanded vehicle controls have been mentioned: air conditioning, radio and media control localThese touches would allow Android Auto to control more of the car's native features, but they require testing by model and manufacturer, which explains a necessarily gradual rollout.

Aesthetically, in addition to the transparent outline icons seen in some combinations with One UI, the direction is to gradually deploy Material 3 Expressive Without any sudden changes. Hopefully, when it's ready, it will be activated by the server or via stable flags, minimizing broken compatibility.

Most notable errors: what has been fixed and what remains to be polished

Among what has already been resolved, the following stand out: audio failing to connect and 5GHz Wi-Fi issues. These fixes should reduce dropouts and improve consistency in cars with wireless connections, one of the most repeated complaints in previous versions.

There are still some cases of black screen when plugging in the mobile and specific compatibilities with certain models, with special mention to the Pixel 9 family and the Galaxy S25. If you're affected, try updating to the 15.2 beta (if you can) and monitor the community notes, where Google is publishing previews and patches.

The performance improvements To limit overheating, these have also been intensified. This is a key point: during long browsing and listening sessions, the phone can get hot, and the settings that reduce consumption and prevent throttling make a noticeable difference in fluidity.

Good practices if you decide to try the beta

A couple of tips that will save you some trouble: before updating, check compatibility of your car and phone; keep your phone's operating system and Google Play Services up to date; and, if you use Android Auto for work, consider having a backup on hand in case a bug pops up that hasn't been fixed yet.

During the first routes after updating, Check for audio dropouts, latency when opening apps, or disconnections.. If you detect something, report the failure from the system itself: Sending logs at the moment speeds up the team's ability to locate and fix them in the next build.

If you notice that your phone starts to get too hot, Reduce the brightness of your phone, use a quality cable if connecting via USB and, if applicable, turn off the mobile screen to relieve heat. Remember that the platform has already flirted with overheating warnings in previous betas; it wouldn't be surprising if they return in a more refined form.

FAQs

Are there any visible changes in the 15.2 beta? The highlight is stability: no redesigns or new user-facing features are noticeable. Clear mode and Gemini do not yet appear in the standard experience.

How do I install it? If you're a tester, from the Play Store. If not, you can opt for the signed APK (e.g. via APK Mirror) using a bundle installer, although the official recommendation prioritizes Play Store for security.

Is a beta safe? They are trial versions and may present incompatibilities, reboots or increased consumptionIf you rely on Android Auto daily, it's best to wait for the stable release to avoid any issues.

Android Auto 15.2 beta isn't here to dazzle, but to strengthen. Connection issues are being fixed, compatibility is being polished, and major new features are being prepared. These will be released in phases. If you like to stay ahead and accept minor setbacks, this is a great update; if you're looking for zero surprises, wait for the stable version and you'll have a more well-rounded experience.