Android Auto build 18.0.664204 reveals upcoming Work Account support

An unreleased version of Android Auto, specifically build 18.0.664204, contains code indicating support for Work Accounts, according to findings reported by 9to5Google. This discovery suggests Google may be preparing to integrate professional account separation into its in-car interface, a feature currently absent from the official release.

The build adds Work Account to the Quick Settings tile options within the Android Auto environment. When enabled, this setting displays a briefcase icon over the app drawer, signaling that work-specific applications are active. This visual indicator mirrors the behavior found on standard Android mobile devices, where users can distinguish between personal and professional app instances.

Context and Background

Android already provides a mechanism for separating data through Work Profiles, which isolates business applications and data from personal ones. Users with this feature enabled see a small briefcase icon denoting which apps belong to the work profile. These applications run in separate instances, ensuring that corporate data remains distinct from personal information on the device.

Despite this existing infrastructure on mobile Android, Android Auto has not officially supported Work Profiles. The discovery of this feature in build 18.0.664204 was made by Android Authority, who identified the new Quick Settings option. The test version of the app is not fully functional, but the presence of the code indicates a potential roadmap for future updates.

Who is Affected

Work Account support in Android Auto would primarily benefit users who utilize vehicles for professional purposes. Currently, individuals who spend work hours behind the wheel cannot access work-specific applications through Android Auto, as the platform does not support the necessary profile separation. This limitation hinders the experience for corporate users who need to access business tools while driving.

The inability to switch between personal and work accounts in the car forces users to rely on their personal profiles or disconnect from the system entirely. Adding this support would allow for easy switching in work vehicles, enabling users to connect without having personal apps enabled or accessible. This could streamline the experience for fleet drivers and corporate employees.

What should you do?

There is no confirmed timeline for when or if Google will officially release Work Account support for Android Auto. The current evidence comes from an unreleased, non-functional test build. Users should monitor official Google announcements for updates regarding Android Auto features. No immediate action is required, as the feature is not yet available in any public release.

What to do and how to stay safe: Android Auto

• Monitor official Google channels for announcements regarding Android Auto feature updates.
• Review current Android Auto settings to understand existing profile limitations.
• Ensure personal data remains secure by not installing unauthorized work apps on personal profiles.
• Wait for official vendor guidance before attempting to use unreleased software builds.

Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Does Android Auto currently support Work Accounts?

No, Android Auto does not officially support Work Profiles, although an unreleased build shows signs of future support.

Which Android Auto build revealed this feature?

Build 18.0.664204 of Android Auto contains the code for Work Account support in Quick Settings.

Is the Work Account feature functional in the test build?

No, the test version of Android Auto with this feature is not fully functional.