Android Auto - review and user guide
Android has been a symbol of tailoring software to each user. This has led it becoming Apple’s biggest competitor. Android allows room for heavy customisation for those users who don’t want what they’re given and want to create an ecosystem which caters to them. Apple on the other hand has been strict about what goes. For some users who don’t want the hassle of ‘too many options’ Apple is the way to go, however for those free-spirited individuals who are looking to create their own space. Android becomes a boon!
While we are all aware of the advancements made by Android in the electronics industry, Android is massively celebrated for bringing in its tune and music to the automobile industry with Android Auto.
This blog delves deeply into the beauty and shortcomings of Android Auto alongside some essential nudges to make your driving experience a walk in the park. Let’s get into it!
Table of content
- What is Android Auto?
- How to connect your phone with Android Auto?
- What are the main features of Android Auto?
- What are all the apps that Android Auto supports?
- How Android Auto is different from using my phone?
What is Android Auto?
Android Auto is a mobile application developed by Google that allows users to integrate their Android smartphones with the infotainment system of a compatible vehicle. It provides a user-friendly interface on the car's display, designed to minimise distractions while driving. Android Auto enables access to various smartphone functions and apps directly through the car's touchscreen, physical controls, or voice commands.
To use Android Auto, users need a compatible vehicle with an Android Auto-enabled infotainment system, a USB cable to connect the smartphone to the car, and a smartphone running Android 5.0 or later. The platform is continuously evolving, with updates introducing new features and improvements to enhance the driving experience.
How to connect your phone with Android Auto?
Wired Connection
- Ensure Compatibility: Ensure your car's infotainment system supports Android Auto and that your phone is running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later. If you have Android version 9.0 and above, Android Auto is built in. Don’t worry about downloading it. Here’s a link to ensure Vehicle Compatability
- Download Android Auto App: Download and install the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store on your Android smartphone.
- Connect USB Cable: Using a USB cable, connect your phone to the car's USB port that's designated for smartphone connectivity.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: Turn on your car's ignition and follow the on-screen instructions on the car's display. If prompted, allow access to your phone's data.
- Enable Android Auto: On your phone, open the Android Auto app. Follow any additional setup prompts, granting necessary permissions.
- Access Android Auto Interface: Once connected, your car's display should switch to the Android Auto interface. You can now use Android Auto features directly on the car's touchscreen.
Wireless Connection
Enjoy the convenience of accessing Android Auto without the need for a physical cable, allowing for a cleaner and more flexible in-car experience.
Confirm Compatibility: Check if your car and phone support wireless android auto. Note that not all cars and phones offer this feature. Here’s a list of Vehicles and Stereos compatible with Android Auto
Connect to the Same Wi-Fi: Ensure your phone and car are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Download Android Auto App: Download and install the Android Auto app on your phone if you haven't already.
Enable Bluetooth: Turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
Enable Wireless Android Auto on the Car: In your car's infotainment settings, look for the option to enable wireless Android Auto. Follow on-screen prompts.
Launch Android Auto on the Phone: Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: Follow any on-screen prompts that appear on your phone. This may involve granting permissions and acknowledging any pairing requests.
Access Android Auto Interface: Once the connection is established, your car's display should switch to the Android Auto interface wirelessly. You can now navigate and use Android Auto features directly from your car's touchscreen.
Important: The steps might vary slightly depending on your car's make and model. If you encounter difficulties, consult your car's user manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions.
What are the features of Android Auto?
The features of Android Auto are quite considerable. As we discussed before, Android isn’t strict about customisability as compared to its counterpart Apple CarPlay. This allows consumers to vastly alter and play with the permutation combinations till they find their best fit.
Key features of Android Auto include:
1.Navigation: Users can use navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, or other compatible mapping services for real-time directions, traffic updates, and route planning.
2. Music and Media: Android Auto supports music and media apps such as Spotify, Google Play Music, Amazon Prime Music and others, allowing users to play their favourite tunes or podcasts during the drive.
3. Messaging and Calling: Users can send and receive messages through supported messaging apps and make hands-free phone calls through Google Assistant. Just say “Okay Google’. The system often relies on voice commands to ensure safety.
4. Voice Commands: Android Auto integrates with Google Assistant, enabling users to perform various functions using voice commands. This includes sending messages, making calls, and controlling music.
5. Integration with Car Controls: Depending on the car model, Android Auto can integrate with physical controls like steering wheel buttons and knobs, providing a seamless and convenient user experience. There’s a link to check the compatibility of Android Auto in the section above.
6. App Ecosystem: Android Auto supports a variety of third-party apps, expanding its functionality beyond the built-in features. Developers can create apps specifically designed for the in-car experience.
What are the apps that are supported by Android Auto?
Android Auto supports a range of apps in Australia. However, app availability may vary based on factors such as region, android version, and updates made by app developers. Here are some common categories of apps that are typically supported by Android Auto in Australia:
1.Navigation
- Waze
- Google Maps
2. Music & Audio
- Spotify
- Youtube
- Google Play Music
- Amazon Prime Music
3. Messaging & Calling
- Messenger
- Telegram
4. Phone & Contacts
- Phone (native phone app)
- Contacts (access to your phone's contact list)
5. Utilities and Productivity
- Calendar
- Reminders
- Alarms
6. Audiobooks & Podcasts
- Audible
- Google Play Books
- Podcasts Go
7. Weather
- Native Weather App
8. Parking & Fuel
- Fuelio
- Charging Station Finder
- JustPark
- Easy Park
9. Food & Restaurants
- UberEats
- MyMacca
- Menulog
- Eat Club (Excluding Tasmania)
10. Travels & Hotels
- Airbnb
- Trivago
- Booking.com
How is using Android Auto different from using my phone?
Australia has a severe problem with drivers being on their phones constantly. This creates an imminent safety hazard for drivers, occupants of the car and pedestrians on the road. Android Auto differs from using your phone directly in several key ways, primarily designed to enhance safety and reduce distractions while driving:
1. Safety-Focused Interface: Android Auto features a simplified, easy-to-read interface designed for quick glances, minimising distractions and promoting safer driving.
2. Voice Commands: Android Auto heavily relies on voice commands through Google Assistant. This allows you to perform various functions, from sending messages to navigating, without taking your hands off the wheel.
3. Designed for Driving: The interface of Android Auto is specifically optimised for in-car use. It prioritises essential information and functions relevant to driving, ensuring a focused and efficient experience.
4. Integration with Car Controls: Android Auto seamlessly integrates with physical controls in the car, such as steering wheel buttons and touchscreen displays, providing an intuitive and familiar interaction.
5. Minimal Manual Interaction: While using your phone may require manual interaction with the touchscreen, Android Auto aims to reduce this need. The focus is on hands-free operation and minimal touch interaction.
6. Limited App Access: Android Auto offers access to a curated set of apps that are deemed safe and relevant for in-car use. This limited selection helps avoid unnecessary distractions.
7. Voice-activated messaging and Calling: Android Auto allows hands-free messaging and calling, enabling you to stay connected without physically interacting with your phone while driving.
8. Navigation with Real-Time Traffic Updates: Android Auto integrates with navigation apps like Google Maps, providing real-time traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions, enhancing your driving experience.
9. Automated Prompts and Suggestions: Android Auto can automatically suggest routes based on your usual destinations, reducing the need for manual input and anticipating your preferences.
10. Safer App Interaction: Interaction with apps like music and messaging is designed to be safer in Android Auto. For example, reading long messages aloud or summarising them helps keep your attention on the road.
11. Car-Optimised Interface: Android Auto adapts its interface to the in-car display, ensuring that information is presented in a way that is easy to view and navigate while driving.
12. Enhanced Integration with Car Features: Android Auto can integrate with car-specific features, providing information on fuel levels, tire pressure, and other essential vehicle details, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Using Android Auto offers a more tailored and safer experience for driving compared to using your phone directly. It aims to keep your attention on the road while still providing essential connectivity and information.
TL;DR
Android Auto is the direct and more customisable alternative to Apple CarPlay. This software is developed by Google, thus allowing for multiple Google-based apps and many other third-party applications. This accessibility and customisability make taking a road trip with Android Auto a treat as everything can be adjusted according to your needs, unlike in Apple CarPlay. From apps like Google Maps and Waze to music apps like Spotify and Prime Music, Android Auto supports all of them and more.
Given that most of our phones run on Android versions, using this infotainment system is easier and we get adjusted to it faster. The familiarity is the same as with any Android smartphone and thus it makes a great space for itself in our car and makes way for enjoyable journeys ahead. So don’t wait, get your Android Auto now!
FAQs
1.How to set up Android Auto in a car?
Connect your Android phone to the car's USB port, install the Android Auto app, and follow the on-screen prompts. Adjust settings in the app for a personalised experience.
2. How to make your Android Auto wireless?
To make Android Auto wireless, ensure your car and phone support this feature. Connect to the same Wi-Fi network, download the Android Auto app, and follow the setup instructions.
3. What is the Apple version of Android Auto?
The Apple version of Android Auto is Apple CarPlay. It provides similar features, integrating iPhones with compatible infotainment systems to enhance the in-car experience.
4. How to connect an iPhone with Android Auto?
Android Auto is designed for Android devices. For iPhone integration, use Apple CarPlay. Connect your iPhone via USB to a compatible car system supporting CarPlay.
5. How to update Android Auto?
Update Android Auto by ensuring the app is up-to-date on your phone. Visit the Google Play Store, locate Android Auto, and click "Update" if available.
6. Is Android Auto free of cost?
Yes, Android Auto is completely free of cost. However, some manufactures charge a nominal fee for installing the infotainment software in a lower trim model of a car.
Android has been a symbol of tailoring software to each user. This has led it becoming Apple’s biggest competitor. Android allows room for heavy customisation for those users who don’t want what they’re given and want to create an ecosystem which caters to them. Apple on the other hand has been strict about what goes. For some users who don’t want the hassle of ‘too many options’ Apple is the way to go, however for those free-spirited individuals who are looking to create their own space. Android becomes a boon!
While we are all aware of the advancements made by Android in the electronics industry, Android is massively celebrated for bringing in its tune and music to the automobile industry with Android Auto.
This blog delves deeply into the beauty and shortcomings of Android Auto alongside some essential nudges to make your driving experience a walk in the park. Let’s get into it!
Table of content
- What is Android Auto?
- How to connect your phone with Android Auto?
- What are the main features of Android Auto?
- What are all the apps that Android Auto supports?
- How Android Auto is different from using my phone?
What is Android Auto?
Android Auto is a mobile application developed by Google that allows users to integrate their Android smartphones with the infotainment system of a compatible vehicle. It provides a user-friendly interface on the car's display, designed to minimise distractions while driving. Android Auto enables access to various smartphone functions and apps directly through the car's touchscreen, physical controls, or voice commands.
To use Android Auto, users need a compatible vehicle with an Android Auto-enabled infotainment system, a USB cable to connect the smartphone to the car, and a smartphone running Android 5.0 or later. The platform is continuously evolving, with updates introducing new features and improvements to enhance the driving experience.
How to connect your phone with Android Auto?
Wired Connection
- Ensure Compatibility: Ensure your car's infotainment system supports Android Auto and that your phone is running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later. If you have Android version 9.0 and above, Android Auto is built in. Don’t worry about downloading it. Here’s a link to ensure Vehicle Compatability
- Download Android Auto App: Download and install the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store on your Android smartphone.
- Connect USB Cable: Using a USB cable, connect your phone to the car's USB port that's designated for smartphone connectivity.
- Follow On-Screen Instructions: Turn on your car's ignition and follow the on-screen instructions on the car's display. If prompted, allow access to your phone's data.
- Enable Android Auto: On your phone, open the Android Auto app. Follow any additional setup prompts, granting necessary permissions.
- Access Android Auto Interface: Once connected, your car's display should switch to the Android Auto interface. You can now use Android Auto features directly on the car's touchscreen.
Wireless Connection
Enjoy the convenience of accessing Android Auto without the need for a physical cable, allowing for a cleaner and more flexible in-car experience.
Confirm Compatibility: Check if your car and phone support wireless android auto. Note that not all cars and phones offer this feature. Here’s a list of Vehicles and Stereos compatible with Android Auto
Connect to the Same Wi-Fi: Ensure your phone and car are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Download Android Auto App: Download and install the Android Auto app on your phone if you haven't already.
Enable Bluetooth: Turn on Bluetooth on your phone.
Enable Wireless Android Auto on the Car: In your car's infotainment settings, look for the option to enable wireless Android Auto. Follow on-screen prompts.
Launch Android Auto on the Phone: Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: Follow any on-screen prompts that appear on your phone. This may involve granting permissions and acknowledging any pairing requests.
Access Android Auto Interface: Once the connection is established, your car's display should switch to the Android Auto interface wirelessly. You can now navigate and use Android Auto features directly from your car's touchscreen.
Important: The steps might vary slightly depending on your car's make and model. If you encounter difficulties, consult your car's user manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions.
What are the features of Android Auto?
The features of Android Auto are quite considerable. As we discussed before, Android isn’t strict about customisability as compared to its counterpart Apple CarPlay. This allows consumers to vastly alter and play with the permutation combinations till they find their best fit.
Key features of Android Auto include:
1.Navigation: Users can use navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, or other compatible mapping services for real-time directions, traffic updates, and route planning.
2. Music and Media: Android Auto supports music and media apps such as Spotify, Google Play Music, Amazon Prime Music and others, allowing users to play their favourite tunes or podcasts during the drive.
3. Messaging and Calling: Users can send and receive messages through supported messaging apps and make hands-free phone calls through Google Assistant. Just say “Okay Google’. The system often relies on voice commands to ensure safety.
4. Voice Commands: Android Auto integrates with Google Assistant, enabling users to perform various functions using voice commands. This includes sending messages, making calls, and controlling music.
5. Integration with Car Controls: Depending on the car model, Android Auto can integrate with physical controls like steering wheel buttons and knobs, providing a seamless and convenient user experience. There’s a link to check the compatibility of Android Auto in the section above.
6. App Ecosystem: Android Auto supports a variety of third-party apps, expanding its functionality beyond the built-in features. Developers can create apps specifically designed for the in-car experience.
What are the apps that are supported by Android Auto?
Android Auto supports a range of apps in Australia. However, app availability may vary based on factors such as region, android version, and updates made by app developers. Here are some common categories of apps that are typically supported by Android Auto in Australia:
1.Navigation
- Waze
- Google Maps
2. Music & Audio
- Spotify
- Youtube
- Google Play Music
- Amazon Prime Music
3. Messaging & Calling
- Messenger
- Telegram
4. Phone & Contacts
- Phone (native phone app)
- Contacts (access to your phone's contact list)
5. Utilities and Productivity
- Calendar
- Reminders
- Alarms
6. Audiobooks & Podcasts
- Audible
- Google Play Books
- Podcasts Go
7. Weather
- Native Weather App
8. Parking & Fuel
- Fuelio
- Charging Station Finder
- JustPark
- Easy Park
9. Food & Restaurants
- UberEats
- MyMacca
- Menulog
- Eat Club (Excluding Tasmania)
10. Travels & Hotels
- Airbnb
- Trivago
- Booking.com
How is using Android Auto different from using my phone?
Australia has a severe problem with drivers being on their phones constantly. This creates an imminent safety hazard for drivers, occupants of the car and pedestrians on the road. Android Auto differs from using your phone directly in several key ways, primarily designed to enhance safety and reduce distractions while driving:
1. Safety-Focused Interface: Android Auto features a simplified, easy-to-read interface designed for quick glances, minimising distractions and promoting safer driving.
2. Voice Commands: Android Auto heavily relies on voice commands through Google Assistant. This allows you to perform various functions, from sending messages to navigating, without taking your hands off the wheel.
3. Designed for Driving: The interface of Android Auto is specifically optimised for in-car use. It prioritises essential information and functions relevant to driving, ensuring a focused and efficient experience.
4. Integration with Car Controls: Android Auto seamlessly integrates with physical controls in the car, such as steering wheel buttons and touchscreen displays, providing an intuitive and familiar interaction.
5. Minimal Manual Interaction: While using your phone may require manual interaction with the touchscreen, Android Auto aims to reduce this need. The focus is on hands-free operation and minimal touch interaction.
6. Limited App Access: Android Auto offers access to a curated set of apps that are deemed safe and relevant for in-car use. This limited selection helps avoid unnecessary distractions.
7. Voice-activated messaging and Calling: Android Auto allows hands-free messaging and calling, enabling you to stay connected without physically interacting with your phone while driving.
8. Navigation with Real-Time Traffic Updates: Android Auto integrates with navigation apps like Google Maps, providing real-time traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions, enhancing your driving experience.
9. Automated Prompts and Suggestions: Android Auto can automatically suggest routes based on your usual destinations, reducing the need for manual input and anticipating your preferences.
10. Safer App Interaction: Interaction with apps like music and messaging is designed to be safer in Android Auto. For example, reading long messages aloud or summarising them helps keep your attention on the road.
11. Car-Optimised Interface: Android Auto adapts its interface to the in-car display, ensuring that information is presented in a way that is easy to view and navigate while driving.
12. Enhanced Integration with Car Features: Android Auto can integrate with car-specific features, providing information on fuel levels, tire pressure, and other essential vehicle details, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Using Android Auto offers a more tailored and safer experience for driving compared to using your phone directly. It aims to keep your attention on the road while still providing essential connectivity and information.
TL;DR
Android Auto is the direct and more customisable alternative to Apple CarPlay. This software is developed by Google, thus allowing for multiple Google-based apps and many other third-party applications. This accessibility and customisability make taking a road trip with Android Auto a treat as everything can be adjusted according to your needs, unlike in Apple CarPlay. From apps like Google Maps and Waze to music apps like Spotify and Prime Music, Android Auto supports all of them and more.
Given that most of our phones run on Android versions, using this infotainment system is easier and we get adjusted to it faster. The familiarity is the same as with any Android smartphone and thus it makes a great space for itself in our car and makes way for enjoyable journeys ahead. So don’t wait, get your Android Auto now!
FAQs
1.How to set up Android Auto in a car?
Connect your Android phone to the car's USB port, install the Android Auto app, and follow the on-screen prompts. Adjust settings in the app for a personalised experience.
2. How to make your Android Auto wireless?
To make Android Auto wireless, ensure your car and phone support this feature. Connect to the same Wi-Fi network, download the Android Auto app, and follow the setup instructions.
3. What is the Apple version of Android Auto?
The Apple version of Android Auto is Apple CarPlay. It provides similar features, integrating iPhones with compatible infotainment systems to enhance the in-car experience.
4. How to connect an iPhone with Android Auto?
Android Auto is designed for Android devices. For iPhone integration, use Apple CarPlay. Connect your iPhone via USB to a compatible car system supporting CarPlay.
5. How to update Android Auto?
Update Android Auto by ensuring the app is up-to-date on your phone. Visit the Google Play Store, locate Android Auto, and click "Update" if available.
6. Is Android Auto free of cost?
Yes, Android Auto is completely free of cost. However, some manufactures charge a nominal fee for installing the infotainment software in a lower trim model of a car.
