NewPipe 0.28.0 finally introduces Android Auto support, updated Trending page and more

NewPipe version 0.28.0 has been released, introducing long-awaited Android Auto compatibility. This new feature, almost three years of development and testing, allows users to stream and control playback directly from their car's interface, offering convenient access to streams from history, local and remote bookmarked playlists, and the ability to search on YouTube or any selected service within NewPipe. The integration also supports full player controls, including queue management, enhancing the user experience while driving.

In addition to the car support, NewPipe has introduced several new features to improve user experience. Users can now add feed groups as tabs on the main screen, enabling direct access to grouped or personalized content. The app's trending section has been updated to include livestreams, following changes made by YouTube, and a migration feature has been added to help users transition from the discontinued combined Trending page. Critical issues affecting YouTube playback have also been addressed, resolving problems with playlist loading caps, missing video recommendations, incomplete search results, absent podcasts, and errors related to YouTube Music.

Further enhancements in this update include expanded sharing options, allowing users to export local playlists as YouTube temporary playlists with a new dedicated button. SoundCloud integration has been improved to support likes within channels or feeds and streaming using AAC 160k unprotected audio. Language support has been expanded with the adoption of Android 13’s per-app language settings, adding 15 new locales and updating 68 others. Additional usability upgrades include improved download labeling, better audio track clarification, and fixes to dark theme text readability.