Android Auto is one of the best ways to use your smartphone in a car, with easy hands-free access to music, maps and more. Using a phone while driving is one of the most dangerous things you can do, but with Android Auto you can keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
Like Apple’s CarPlay, Android Auto is a projection platform that runs on your phone to project supported apps and features onto a compatible infotainment head unit screen. This makes it easier for Google and developers to update the platform and lets drivers choose from a wide range of third-party apps. Android Auto APK has five core functions: turn-by-turn navigation, phone call support, audio playback, messaging and voice assistance.
The app selection for Android Auto is quite extensive, and Google has been making a big push lately to bring more of its own apps into the platform. Last year it launched a dedicated YouTube app for Android Auto, and this month it added a new Google Assistant shortcut to launch a specific app with a single voice command. Other notable recent additions include Microsoft Teams, Signal and Discord.
While most modern vehicles have built-in connectivity for mobile platforms like Apple CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto, there are still plenty of older cars out on the road with either no built-in apps or ones that only offer basic functionality. Android Auto has become a go-to option for owners of these vehicles who want to take advantage of the full potential of their vehicle’s technology, and it looks like Google is continuing to invest in improving it.
Using Android Auto is a breeze: just plug your phone in and the Android Auto app will appear on the screen of your car’s infotainment system or head unit. From there, a prompt should appear on the phone and in the head unit asking you to accept the connection. Once connected, the Android Auto interface should appear on the screen and any compatible apps will show up with a simple tap.
Android Auto works with your car’s built-in controls, allowing you to control the music and other apps using your vehicle’s buttons and switches. Alternatively, you can tap the microphone icon to activate the Google Assistant, which works with voice commands and allows you to check the weather, get the latest news and more.
If you’re having trouble connecting to Android Auto, it’s worth a look at your phone’s settings to make sure you’ve enabled it and the app is compatible with your car. It’s also worth checking the Android Auto website or forum for any issues or bugs that may be affecting your experience.
The best thing about Android Auto is how easy it is to set up and use, and with a variety of compatible apps it’s a convenient way to enjoy your favorite media on the road. Just be aware of the risks of distracted driving and you’ll be fine.