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Updated: March 28, 2025
Google's Android Auto is seeing another controversial update: a wavy, squiggly audio progress line that replaces the traditional flat bar. The change, part of a broader Material 3 media player redesign, began rolling out earlier this year and now appears to be reaching more users. Reaction on Reddit and other forums, however, is far from unanimous — some drivers love it, others hate it.
The new progress bar, often called a “squiggly line” or “wavy line,” replaces the straight horizontal progress indicator used in Spotify, YouTube Music, and other apps on Android Auto. It uses a waveform-like shape that rises and falls to show current playback position. Google’s intention is to align the interface with its Material 3 design language, which emphasizes organic shapes and dynamic color.
Over the past week, a surge of conversations on r/AndroidAuto and r/GooglePixel highlight the divide. Some users celebrate the change, saying the squiggly line makes it “way easier to glance at while driving” and “much better at a quick peek.” Supporters also note the thicker, colored line improves visibility compared to the old flat bar that only slightly changed shade.
On the other side, many complain the design is distracting. “It looks like a mistake,” one user wrote. “Is there a setting to turn it off?” Another user called it “unnecessary visual clutter.” As of now, Google has not provided an official toggle to revert to the classic flat bar.
There is no built-in way to disable the squiggly progress bar. Some users have suggested downgrading the Android Auto app to an older version to remove it, but that’s hit or miss. Clearing the app’s cache or reinstalling may also fail to bring back the old design. The safest bet is to wait for Google to offer a setting — but don’t hold your breath.
True to Google’s historical pattern, the squiggly bar is not hitting all devices at once. Reports show it appearing on some older phones (like the Samsung Galaxy A30) while remaining absent on newer models (such as the Vivo V70). One commenter said their new Pixel 9 Pro didn’t have the feature, while their old Pixel 6 did. This suggests a server-side toggle, not a simple app version check.
The update also includes larger album art and reorganized playback buttons. Some drivers appreciate the new layout: “It’s easier to hit next track now without looking too long,” said one Redditor. The larger album art helps visually identify songs, and the buttons are now placed closer to the driver’s side — a smart ergonomic adjustment.
Accessibility advocates point out that the squiggly line provides a clearer visual cue that audio is playing. For drivers with color vision deficiency or those who rely on shape recognition, the moving wave is far more noticeable than a static flat bar. This aligns with Google’s push for inclusive design in Material 3.
Google has not issued a statement about the redesign or the user backlash. The company typically rolls out UI changes slowly and then adjusts based on feedback — but no promise of an opt-out has been made. For now, Android Auto users are left to either embrace the squiggly line or learn to live with it.
The squiggly progress bar is likely here to stay. It’s part of a broader Material 3 refresh across Google’s ecosystem, including the Google Maps navigation panel and the Now Playing feature. If history is any guide, Google may tweak the design based on feedback, but a full reversal seems improbable. Drivers who prefer the old flat bar may need to adapt — or consider using third-party launchers (though these often break Android Auto’s integration).
The squiggly line debate echoes previous Android Auto design controversies, like the removal of the persistent bottom bar. Some users want consistency; others crave innovation. The real test will be whether the new design actually reduces distraction or adds cognitive load. Early reports from driving studies are not yet available, but anecdotal evidence suggests the squiggly line may be a net positive for glanceability — though the aesthetic complaints remain valid.
Whether you love it or hate it, the squiggly bar is rolling out slowly and apparently staying. Keep an eye on your Android Auto update screen, and if you’re one of the lucky (or unlucky) ones to see it, let Google know your thoughts.
