Spotify has rolled out a significant update for its Android Auto app, bringing the Jam feature to in-car displays for the first time. This addition enables drivers and passengers to create shared music sessions, transforming car rides into collaborative listening experiences.
Jam allows multiple Spotify users to listen together in real time. With this update, when music is playing through Android Auto, the in-car display will now show a QR code that passengers can scan to join the Jam session. Once connected, passengers can add their chosen tracks to the shared queue, effectively turning the car into a mobile party. The driver, acting as the host, retains control over the session, including the ability to remove songs or contributors as needed to maintain the flow of music.
Previously, Jam was only available on Spotify’s desktop app, but this marks its debut on automotive platforms. To host a Jam session, users need a Spotify Premium subscription, although free users can still join sessions and add songs to the playlist.
The rollout aligns with Google’s recent announcement at I/O 2025 regarding new in-car experiences. Google confirmed that Jam will also be made available for vehicles with Google built-in systems in the near future, expanding its reach beyond Android Auto-compatible cars.
In addition to the Jam feature, the latest Spotify update for Android Auto includes a redesigned interface with practical usability enhancements. A new Downloads section has been added to provide quicker access to offline content, an especially valuable feature for drivers travelling through areas with limited or unreliable network coverage.
Spotify has also introduced a floating Search button, allowing users to access the app’s search functionality without navigating away from the Now Playing screen. This minor but effective change aims to make it easier and safer for drivers and passengers to find new music while on the move.
These updates reflect Spotify’s broader push to integrate its services more deeply into users’ daily routines, including the in-car environment, by prioritising collaborative experiences and streamlined functionality.
As in-car entertainment systems become increasingly connected and interactive, features like Jam are likely to play a growing role in redefining shared listening experiences on the road. The update is now live for Android Auto users, with broader availability expected in upcoming weeks for vehicles with native Google integration.
