Trending Now - Youtube Expands Android Auto Features, but Premium Push Persists

WHO:

TechRadar - YouTube is the organization rolling out support for Android Auto.

9to5google.com - Users on Reddit are reporting their experiences with the new functionality.

WHAT:

TechRadar - YouTube has added support for Android Auto, but it does not provide the full YouTube experience.

9to5google.com - The new Android Auto support allows users to play/pause content and skip to the next video, but does not allow video playback or full media controls.

9to5google.com - Background play is only available to users with a YouTube Premium subscription.

WHERE:

9to5google.com - The functionality is available across multiple devices and accounts.

WHEN:

9to5google.com - The YouTube Android Auto support is being rolled out widely as of March 2026.

9to5google.com - Background play was included in the $7.99/month Premium Lite plan as of February 2026.

WHY:

9to5google.com - The limited functionality may be a strategy to encourage users to sign up for YouTube Premium.

HOW:

9to5google.com - YouTube appears in the dashboard media widget of Android Auto, allowing basic audio controls while driving.

(UPDATED March 30, 2026 13:21 UTC)

YouTube is rolling out support for Android Auto, allowing users to play and pause content as well as skip to the next video, although it does not offer full video playback or media controls. This new functionality is available across multiple devices and accounts, but background play is limited to those with a YouTube Premium subscription. The rollout began in March 20th26, and it seems the limited features may be a strategy to encourage more users to sign up for YouTube Premium.