Style foundations

  • Android Auto and Android Automotive OS share core design principles but differ in style and layout based on their unique contexts.

  • Android Auto maintains a consistent Google-branded look across all cars, while AAOS allows car manufacturers to customize the UI to reflect their brand.

  • Design guidelines for Android Auto primarily explain Google's style choices, whereas AAOS guidelines provide more detailed guidance for car manufacturers creating custom layouts.

  • Key style differences include color palettes, fonts, and layout adaptability.

The styles for the two Android for Cars systems – Android Auto and Android Automotive OS (AAOS) – are based on the same interaction design and visual design principles. However, the style and layout details for these systems differ in some ways, based on the unique context for each system.

Here's an overview of the style-related differences between these systems. For details about styles and layouts for each, visit Android Auto design system and AAOS design system.

Android Auto AAOS
Style context
  • Google builds and controls the UI
  • UI is projected from phone onto car screens
  • UI has same look and feel in all cars
  • Style details reflect Google brand, with app branding accents
  • Car makers build the UI based on AAOS
  • UI is built into car infotainment systems
  • UI is customized for each car model
  • Style details reflect car-maker brand, with app branding accents
Purpose of style and layout guidelines
  • Explain the thinking behind the style choices in the UI
  • Serve as a reference for any design choices app developers can make
  • Explain the thinking behind style recommendations for car makers
  • Provide detailed guidance for car makers creating custom layouts and styles for their UIs
  • Serve as a reference for any design choices app developers can make
Key differences
  • Google colors
  • Google Sans font for larger type sizes
  • Google-determined layout that adapts across car types
  • Car-maker colors
  • Standard fonts for all type sizes (Roboto or Noto Sans)
  • Custom layouts