Science & Tech · Big Tech & Internet · 3 hrs ago
Android Auto code hints at a possible Work Mode feature
A hidden Work Mode tile appeared in Android Auto version 18.0.664204, suggesting Google may be testing controls for work apps.
The tile showed a briefcase icon, but tapping it did nothing, and Google has not said when it might arrive.
Android Work Profiles keep employer-managed apps separate from personal apps, and current Android Auto rules limit access to some work features.
For example, Teams calls do not work through Android Auto when Teams is installed in a managed Work Profile, while Meet does not show upcoming meetings or call history from one.
A dashboard switch could eventually help drivers silence work alerts without muting personal apps, but it could also bring more work into the car.
Even if Google adds the feature, Android Auto and employers will still limit which work apps drivers can use.
An Android Auto teardown revealed a hidden Work Mode tile that may point to future controls for work apps.
The tile appeared in Android Auto version 18.0.664204, but tapping it did nothing.
Google has not said whether or when the feature will arrive or what controls it might offer.
Work Profiles separate employer-managed apps from personal apps and data on employee-owned phones.
Current restrictions prevent some work-profile functions in Android Auto, including access to certain meeting features.
- Who
- Google may be testing the feature; Android Authority discovered the tile in a teardown.
- What
- A hidden Work Mode tile suggests possible Android Auto controls for Work Profiles.
- When
- The tile was found in Android Auto version 18.0.664204. Google has not said when the feature might arrive.
- Where
- Android Auto.
- Why
- Not stated
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
An Android Authority teardown revealed a hidden Work Mode tile.
The team brought up the tile, which showed a briefcase icon over the app drawer, but tapping it did nothing.
- Android Auto version
- 18.0.664204
- Tile icon
- Briefcase
- Tile function
- Tapping it did nothing
- Work Profiles
- Keep employer-managed apps separate from personal apps and data on employee-owned phones
What people are saying
Your commute could soon come with a little more office baggage.
Google hasn't said whether Android Auto's experimental tile will offer those controls.