04:25 03-08-2026
Google Maps Goes 3D: Immersive Navigation Starts Reaching Android Auto
Google is rolling out a redesigned Google Maps interface with 3D buildings and clearer lane guidance to Android Auto users, starting in the US.
Some Android Auto users have started noticing a completely redesigned Google Maps interface — with 3D buildings and much more detailed road rendering. This isn’t a global mass rollout just yet: Google is deploying Immersive Navigation gradually, so identical app versions can currently look different for different drivers.
The new map renders buildings, flyovers and terrain in 3D, and highlights lanes, traffic lights, crosswalks and stop signs ahead of tricky maneuvers. Smart zoom widens the view of the route in advance, while tall buildings turn transparent so drivers can see the road behind them.
Google Maps also explains the difference between alternative routes: one might be faster but require a toll, another longer but able to bypass traffic. Before arrival, the navigator can show the surroundings via Street View, the parking entrance and which side of the street to expect. The feature itself isn’t exclusive to Android Auto.
Immersive Navigation is also increasingly tied to Gemini — though that’s a separate strand of updates, not something to lump in with one specific map release.
The voice assistant is already widely available in Android Auto, letting drivers search for stops along the way, refine a route or handle phone-linked tasks using natural speech. In cars with Google built-in, the system can additionally draw on that specific model’s hardware. A speedometer has existed in Google Maps before too, though it isn’t available in every region.
Google is starting the rollout in the US and plans to expand availability to compatible Android and iOS devices, Apple CarPlay and cars with Google built-in. The company hasn’t given exact timelines for individual countries.
Google notes that the on-screen speed reading is for reference only and may differ from the car’s own dashboard. So the real headline of Immersive Navigation isn’t the speed readout — it’s a clearer picture of the road ahead of complex turns and interchanges.
32CARS.RU previously reported that Google Maps started showing driving speed in Android Auto.