What is Android Auto, and how do you use it?

Android Auto lets Android smartphone owners easily connect their device to their car’s infotainment system display. Features such as making and receiving calls and text messages, using sat nav and listening to music are all possible thanks to this Google-developed system.

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is Google’s own software that connects your Android phone to your car’s display. It mirrors a simplified version of your phone’s screen on the dashboard and lets you access multiple apps easily and safely through the touchscreen or voice commands while driving.

How to connect Android Auto

There are two easy ways to connect your phone to Android Auto, both requiring an active mobile data or Wi-Fi connection:

Connecting Android Auto with a USB cable

Unlock your phone, plug a USB or USB-C cable into it, and connect the other end to your car’s USB port (some cars may have a dedicated data port). Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the connection.

Connecting Android Auto with Bluetooth

For newer cars with wireless support, pair your phone via Bluetooth. Make sure your phone is discoverable, and your car’s infotainment system is set to allow pairing. Once both are ready, find your car in the list of available devices on your phone and connect. If it’s your first time connecting, confirm the four-digit code on both screens to complete the setup.

Main features of Android Auto

Maps and navigation

If your car lacks built-in sat nav, Android Auto lets you use Google Maps on your infotainment system. It suggests faster routes and supports hands-free navigation with voice commands like “Navigate to [destination].” Maps also pulls in commercial destinations and suggests routes based on your recent searches, using real-time data for more accurate traffic info. Waze is another option for drivers who want real-time traffic updates and hazard alerts.

Communication

Android Auto allows you to make and receive phone calls, send text messages, and use voice commands to interact with your phone. You can also use a variety of messaging platforms, such as WhatsApp, to keep in touch with other people, too.

Streaming music

Android Auto allows you to access your preferred music streaming apps while you’re on the move. All big subscription-based services like Amazon Music, YouTube Music and Spotify are all compatible.

Third-party apps

A wide range of apps are compatible with Android Auto, including news apps like BBC News, music streaming services, and messaging platforms such as Facebook Messenger. Regular updates to your phone with new apps make Android Auto more flexible than many traditional infotainment systems.

Which cars support Android Auto?

Today, Android Auto is available in most new cars from major and smaller manufacturers. You can check out our list of cars that support Android Auto. Bear in mind, your device needs to be running Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or newer to be compatible.

Aftermarket head units from brands like Pioneer, Sony, and Alpine also offer Android Auto and other features such as Apple CarPlay. These systems upgrade older vehicles with modern tech, but they can be expensive and may not fit all car models, particularly older ones.

Android Auto FAQs

Where is Android Auto on my phone?

Android Auto is pre-installed on phones with Android 10 or later, and can be found in your phone’s Settings or Apps. There’s no need to download it from the Play Store.

Do I need an app for Android Auto?

If your phone is running Android 10 or later, you don’t need to install the Android Auto app. But if your phone has Android 9 or earlier, you’ll need to download the app.

How to connect Android Auto wirelessly?

Make sure your car is parked with the engine on, then turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your phone. On your car’s display, tap the Android Auto icon, select ‘Connect New Device’ or ‘Pair/Connect,’ and choose your car from the list of Bluetooth devices. If prompted, accept the connection request.

How much does Android Auto cost?

Android Auto is free to use and the app is free to download to your phone.

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