New Android Auto feature lets you actually use your phone while connected

Android Auto just got a small but incredibly useful update.

Google appears to be rolling out a new "swipe to unlock" feature for the vehicle-connected app that makes it easier to unlock your phone while it's paired to the car.

The company hasn't yet disclosed the change, but it's been spotted by a number of Redditors (h/t Engadget), who report seeing the feature show up in the last day or two.

With the update, users can unlock their phones while it's connected to the in-car Android Auto system with a simple swipe up. This allows you to access content form your phone that wouldn't otherwise be accessible via the Android Auto dash system.

At least one Redditor reports the unlock feature will timeout after about 15 seconds, which is no doubt a safety precaution, but it could still be useful for when you need quick access to your phone.

Of course, the safest thing to do -- and the whole point of Android Auto, really -- is to not use your phone while you drive in the first place (or, at least, wait until you can pull over first). But the new feature is likely meant to combat users' frustration with being completely locked out of their phones for the duration of their drive.