Google Maps in Android Auto now starts showing buildings in 3D

Android Auto recently received a significant design refresh, offering more efficient use of a car’s screen with the ability to display multiple apps side by side. This enhancement allowed users to, for example, run YouTube Music alongside Google Maps simultaneously. However, until now, one feature that was missing from Android Auto was the 3D buildings view in Google Maps, which has been a staple in the phone app for more than a decade.

This immersive view, known for helping users navigate and find locations more easily, is finally making its way to Android Auto, offering a more engaging and detailed exploration of cityscapes.

A Reddit user known as u/Seemebreakthis recently discovered that Google Maps on Android Auto has started displaying 3D buildings, marking a notable addition to the in-car navigation experience. Unlike traditional 2D maps, the 3D buildings feature provides users with a more realistic and visually enriched representation of their surroundings.

U/Seemebreakthis shared a screenshot with translucent 3D buildings that add a layer of depth without affecting the visibility of the roads. While this development doesn’t appear to impact navigation in Android Auto directly, it aligns with the trend of enhancing the overall user experience by bringing popular features from mobile devices to in-car systems.

For those who prefer a more traditional map view, the option to disable 3D buildings remains available

Interestingly, the implementation of 3D buildings on Android Auto seems to be a server-side change, as users reported noticing the feature without manually toggling any settings on their end. This suggests that Google is gradually rolling out the update to users rather than requiring individual action. Meanwhile, Google Maps on smartphones is also evolving, as the 3D buildings feature is reportedly starting to appear during navigation.

Previously, this feature was limited to browsing the Maps app and was not accessible during turn-by-turn directions. Users can experiment with the feature by activating the 3D option from the layers menu on the Maps’ home screen and zooming in until the buildings take on a three-dimensional appearance.

Despite the promising developments, the availability of 3D buildings on Android Auto is not yet widespread, leaving room for speculation about whether it is part of a broader public release or a limited test. As more users experience the feature in the coming weeks, it will become clearer whether Google is extending this enhancement to a broader audience.

For those who prefer a more traditional map view, the option to disable 3D buildings remains available in the same layers menu.