Google says the Google Play app store in cars with Google built-in is being redesigned to adapt to each car's screen. Per Google's post, it rolls out "over the coming weeks." Google also says YouTube audio can keep playing when you shift into drive, but per its post that needs a YouTube Premium subscription.
What changes in the Play Store
Google says the car app library has more than 700 apps and the new store will:
- Show featured apps, what is new and helpful details on the homepage, with one-tap downloads.
- Offer streamlined navigation and curated collections, tailored to whether you are driving or parked.
- Adapt its layout to the shape, orientation and size of the car's display.
The Verge reports the menu lists Apps, Games, Search and More, on the left of the screen or along the top on a vertical display. Google's own images show both layouts.
New apps and the YouTube catch
Google names four apps arriving for parked use: STARZ, Firefox, Ludo King and JioHotstar. It says that, starting with YouTube, you can watch while parked and keep listening with background audio when you shift into drive.
A footnote in Google's post says the parked-to-drive feature requires YouTube Premium. 9to5Google says Google first announced the capability in 2025.
Which cars get it
Google says cars with Google built-in span 16 brands and more than 100 models. It says the updates apply across those cars.
Google names the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 but provides no feature-by-feature availability list. It gives no countries and no date beyond "the coming weeks."
What it does not change for Android Auto
Google's post never mentions Android Auto. 9to5Google calls it the phone-projected platform and says it is also getting video apps in the future. 9to5Google gives no date for that. Our guide explains how it differs from a car's built-in system.
Why it matters
Our judgment, and we have not tried this in a car: the redesign could make browsing apps easier. The audio that follows you from parked to driving is the part that changes how you use the car, and Google ties it to a subscription. If you already pay for YouTube Premium, you get it at no extra cost; 9to5Google reported on April 10, 2026 that the individual plan is $15.99 a month in the US (up from $13.99). We could not read youtube.com/premium for a US price, so that figure is as reported.
It is a reason to subscribe only if in-car background audio is what you want. Google's post does not say what non-subscribers get, so assume the feature is Premium-only until Google says otherwise.
