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CarPlay on an infotainment display, with an iPhone in front

Voice Control with Gemini Google Brings Its AI Assistant to CarPlay

Google has released the Gemini app for CarPlay, allowing users to operate the AI assistant via the vehicle display.

In the photo, a dark drone flies through an autumn forest. In the blurred background, two people in camouflage clothing are visible. One person is holding a remote control. German flags can be seen on their clothing. The drone is marked with the label "MAVIC 3 ENTERPRISE," among other things. The drone is centrally positioned in the foreground and is depicted much more sharply than the people and the forest in the background.

Fear of Espionage Bundeswehr Bans These Cars and Drones From Barracks

The German military restricts Chinese technology in barracks. Affected are small drones and certain cars from China.

Android Auto is a popular infotainment system.

New Minimum Requirement Android Auto No Longer Works on These Smartphones

If your phone is too old, navigation with Android Auto might soon stop working. Google is ending support for older devices.

The digital driver's license is expected to become available as an additional option on smartphones by 2026.

i-Kfz App (a German vehicle registration app) Driver's License Coming to Smartphones in November

The digital driver's license is set to be available in the i-Kfz app by the end of November 2026. The plastic card will remain valid, and the EUDI Wallet will follow in 2027.

Hackers increasingly target connected cars

Study Warns Hacker Attacks on Cars! These Security Flaws Pose a Threat

Connected cars are increasingly becoming targets for cybercriminals. Security risks are shifting toward apps and cloud services.

Emergency braking assistants apparently have issues with reflective clothing.

ADAC Issues Warning! This Clothing, of All Things, Confuses Modern Cars

An ADAC test reveals issues with emergency braking assistants. Children wearing reflective clothing, in particular, are often not detected.

Important Changes and Deadlines Consumers Face in November

Attention, Consumers! New Rules Starting November: Changes in Shopping, Travel, and Cars

In November, several rules for consumers will change. These deadlines and updates regarding rail travel, cars, and online shopping are important.

A round OOONO device is mounted on the passenger side of a dashboard. The display shows a speed camera warning with a speed limit sign of 80 km/h and a distance indication of 400 meters. To the left, part of the infotainment screen is visible.

Co-Driver No. 3 New OOONO Speed Camera Alert Device Features Display and Locates Cheap Gas Stations

The OOONO CO-DRIVER NO3 will feature a display, gas station search, and a trip log. The new traffic assistant is set to launch at the end of October.

Again! VW Recalls Tens of Thousands of Electric Cars Due to Fire Risk

Volkswagen has issued a recall for 22,524 ID.4 vehicles in the United States. Certain high-voltage batteries may catch fire.

An orange and black Formula 1 race car from McLaren is seen from the side on a racetrack. The vehicle speeds along gray asphalt, adorned with several sponsor logos on its body and rear wing. The tires feature colored markings on the rims. In the background, grandstands filled with numerous spectators appear blurred due to the car's motion and a long exposure time. Guardrails and track boundaries run in front of the stands.

McLaren Race Car Replaces Navigation Arrow Google Maps Gets a Formula 1 Makeover

Google Maps introduces a McLaren Formula 1 car as a vehicle icon for navigation. This feature is available for a limited time only.

A person is sitting in a car with their hands on the steering wheel. A phone is visible in a dashboard mount, displaying Android Auto.

Improved Media Control Update for Android Auto Simplifies Operation

Google updates Android Auto to version 17.7, simplifying media controls for users.

The image features large yellow letters spelling "ADAC" against a dense green plant wall. In the foreground, a person walks through the scene, appearing noticeably blurred due to motion. The lettering and parts of the person are reflected on the smooth floor.

Millions of Users Affected ADAC Membership Fees to Increase, but Later Than Expected

ADAC users may have to pay up to 55 euros more in the future, but the price increase is now delayed. TECHBOOK knows why.

Modern speed cameras can detect multiple violations simultaneously

Already in Use New Speed Cameras Monitor More Than Just Speed

New speed cameras capture much more than just speeding violations. They also detect other infractions and are set to transform traffic monitoring.

A person sits at a wooden table with a laptop and holds a red card in their hand. A smartphone is also on the table. In the background, a light-colored sofa and a window are visible.

Ruling from Berlin Court Overturns E-Car Purchase Due to Order Button

A man drove more than 44,000 kilometers with his electric car. Now, the manufacturer is supposed to refund money due to a mislabeled button.

A person is sitting behind the wheel of a car, operating a large screen on the dashboard. The display shows a map view of a navigation app with route and street information. The steering wheel is located to the right of the screen, with blurred traffic visible in the background.

Driving Data Permanently Visible Android Auto Gains Practical Features

Google Maps for Android Auto will now display speed and speed limits even without active navigation.

Journey Ended in Handcuffs Robotaxi Alerts Police About Armed Teenagers

A robotaxi detected a firearm inside the vehicle, halted the ride, and alerted the police. Two teenagers were arrested.

Lidl Partners with Shell for a Savings Campaign

Promotion with Shell Those Who Shop at Lidl Pay Less at the Gas Station

Lidl Savings Promotion: Customers who pay with the discounter's Plus app can get cheaper fuel at Shell. E-car drivers also benefit.

Looking at your phone while crossing the street? That could become costly in Italy.

Italy Cracks Down Those Who Stare at Their Phones Should Pay When Crossing the Street

Attention, Italy vacationers: If you're caught using your phone on a crosswalk, you might soon face a fine.

Google Fixes Annoying Bug in Android Auto with Version 17.4

Install Now! Update for Android Auto Stops Sudden Disconnections in Cars

Recent disruptions with Android Auto have been frustrating many drivers. Google identified the cause and resolved it with an update.

Unusual Incidents Why Thieves Are Now Targeting VW Logos

Criminal gangs are targeting a decorative part on older VW models. Behind it lies valuable technology.

There are apps that warn about speed cameras. But is it legal to use them?

Legal Situation Are Speed Camera Apps for Smartphones Allowed?

Speed camera apps are gaining popularity. But are they even legal and permitted? TECHBOOK investigates.

Be Careful! Volkswagen Issues Warning to Car Owners

Volkswagen Warns of Fake Websites in Car Purchases Volkswagen is cautioning consumers about fraudulent websites when buying cars. Scammers are using deceptively realistic sites and contacts to mislead buyers.

The Federal Motor Transport Authority requests odometer readings from 200,000 vehicle owners

Major Odometer Reading Inquiry Why Thousands of Drivers Are Receiving Mail Now

The Federal Motor Transport Authority is sending letters to randomly selected vehicle owners. The content: a study on annual odometer readings.

A person holds an iPhone in front of the driver's door of a white car and taps on the screen. The smartphone is positioned right next to the door handle, with more vehicles blurred in the background.

New Addition Many VWs Will Soon No Longer Need a Car Key

Volkswagen is reportedly working on integrating with Apple Wallet. In the future, compatible vehicles could be unlocked using an iPhone or Apple Watch.

The Kia EV3 in white, viewed from the front.

Techie's Perspective: A Test Drive Report Kia EV3 Tech Check: What the Digital Cockpit Can Really Do

How Good Is the Kia EV3's Concept? A Tech Check Reveals Strengths in Displays and Connectivity, Along with Minor Weaknesses

Stock Image: Man in Suit Unlocks Car Using Keyless Go.

Clever Trick Why You Should Wrap Your Car Key in Aluminum Foil

Thieves exploit the keyless entry feature to intercept radio signals and unlock cars without force. Here's how you can protect yourself.

Google Maps Glitch Android Auto Has Annoying Display Error

Many users have reported that Google Maps on Android Auto no longer switches to dark mode at night. Complaints are significantly increasing.

App Update Nintendo Music Comes to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Nintendo Music was released at the end of 2024. Now, the service is being expanded to browsers, tablets, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

A person holds a smartphone in a car, displaying the charging process of an electric vehicle.

Act Quickly Why Owners of Electric Cars Could Lose Access to Vehicle Data

After a change to VW interfaces, Home Assistant and evcc can no longer retrieve important data from many vehicles.

Made in Europe What Can Mercedes' AirTag Alternative Do?

Mercedes launches a Bluetooth tracker for keys in collaboration with Chipolo. The device is compatible with Apple and Google systems.