Google Maps on Android Auto reportedly testing darker colors to reduce glare
Android Authority reports Google is testing a darker color scheme for Google Maps on Android Auto, including a dark-gray turn indicator, in its latest beta.
In the redesigned interface, the map surface and the turn indicator in the top right corner become darker even in light mode. In dark mode, the map surface gets noticeably darker and the turn indicator, currently teal, is being tested in dark gray. Android Authority said the teal element looks out of place at night and can be distracting on bright infotainment screens.
The outlet enabled the new UI in the beta and found the darker colors did not appear on the connected Android phone, indicating the change is limited to Android Auto. Google often runs A/B tests for interface elements, and Android Authority said it is unclear whether the darker look is an intentional change or a bug in the beta. The beta update also includes weather animations and support for Quick Settings tiles, though the map color change appears to be separate from those features.