Android Auto users say Google's wavy media progress bar is gone

When a feature you’ve grown accustomed to suddenly vanishes without explanation, it can leave you feeling confused and potentially frustrated. For example, drivers were befuddled when the live speedometer recently disappeared from Google Maps on Android Auto. Unfortunately, Android Auto users are experiencing this feeling once again with the disappearance of another feature.

Google initially rolled out Android Auto’s redesigned media player, which features a squiggly progress bar, back in January. That new progress bar briefly vanished due to a bug, but Google restored it and rolled it out again for everyone to enjoy. However, it appears a new bug has now partially taken it away again.

According to reports on Reddit, the progress bar has reverted back to a straight line. It appears this issue happens specifically when using Spotify in full-screen mode. The wavy progress bar reportedly returns when using the app in split-screen view.

Comments on the thread are mixed about the disappearance. Some users seem to be glad that the squiggly line is gone for them. One user states, “Noticed it in mine. I don’t like it personally and think the wiggly line is unnecessary.” At the same time, there are a few defenders of Google’s visual flair, with one user saying, “Aw man, I love the wiggly line :(.”

Android Authority has reached out to Google for comment on the issue. We will update this article when new information becomes available. Until then, is the wavy progress bar still available for you when using Spotify? Let us know in the comments section below.