Over the past few years, Google has been working hard to promote Android Auto which allows you to link your phone to your car"s display thereby mirroring your notifications, music, and navigation to it. Back in August, the company announced that it would be expanding its ecosystem to allow a wider range of apps.
On that front, Google has been working with its early access partner to improve the Android for Cars App Library, which is now rolling out to all developers in an open beta.
The library allows developers to design, build, and test their navigation, charging, and parking applications on Android Auto. Google emphasizes that since the applications will be used by someone while driving, it is essential that developers familiarize themselves with the design and app quality guidelines.
While testing the app, developers can take advantage of the Desktop Head Unit (DHU), which is an emulator mirroring the capabilities that will be available to you on a car"s infotainment display. The DHU now also supports different display sizes as well as infotainment panels which support touchpad input.
Google says that it will enable Play Store publication of beta apps in the coming months, and those interested in building these applications can head over to the dedicated developer guide here.