The portrait reference design gives drivers easy access to controls and apps in the infotainment system from a convenient, map-based Home screen.
![Car dashboard with portrait-format screen showing reference design](/static/cars/design/automotive-os/product-experience/system-ui/portrait-reference/images/hero_ricky_bobby.jpg)
The portrait reference design is a reference system UI built on Android Automotive OS (AAOS) and optimized for portrait displays. Available in Android 14 or later, it's one of 2 fully-built, customizable reference designs in AAOS. (For a comparison of the 2 designs, see Choose a reference design.)
The portrait reference design helps car makers to:
- Enable multitasking: Drivers can see and perform several tasks with minimal distraction on large touchscreen portrait displays.
- Increase usability: Commonly used functionality is placed near the driver, with consideration for reach curves and physical anchoring.
- Prioritize navigation: Drivers can view and access navigation apps on the Home screen at all times.
- Ensure access to key controls: Frequently used controls, such as media, system navigation, and the readily available navigation app are always available on the Home screen to minimize driver distraction.
What's in this section
![Spatial model](/static/cars/design/automotive-os/product-experience/system-ui/portrait-reference/images/spatial_model.png)
Spatial model
Main elements of the architecture and how they fit together
![System experience](/static/cars/design/automotive-os/product-experience/system-ui/portrait-reference/images/system_experience.png)
System experience
Design elements of the system experience
![App experience](/static/cars/design/automotive-os/product-experience/system-ui/portrait-reference/images/app_experience.png)
App experience
Design elements of the base and top layers for a cohesive app experience
![Customization](/static/cars/design/automotive-os/product-experience/system-ui/portrait-reference/images/customization.png)
Customization
Customize the reference design to reflect brand values