What Is Android Auto – How Does It Work

Android Auto is Google’s infotainment operating system for cars based on the Android OS. It is designed to work with smartphones and tablets, allowing users to access apps and services on the road. Android Auto is designed to be simple to use while driving, and has large buttons to simplify interaction with it, as well as voice commands.

Android Auto allows users to access their phone’s navigation, music, messaging, and other apps through their car’s dashboard display. Drivers can use the touchscreen or voice commands to interact with it.

Android Auto is currently available in a number of new cars and aftermarket head units from Pioneer, Kenwood, and others. However, unlike Apple’s CarPlay system – which puts the operating system in control of your car – Android Auto requires a smartphone or tablet running Android 5.0 Lollipop or later (or a dedicated device) plugged into your car via USB cable.

The smartphone acts as the brain and provides the processing power for Android Auto to work properly.

What Exactly Does Android Auto Do?

First and foremost, Android Auto is supposed to make it easier and safer to use your Android devices while driving. The idea is that instead of touching your phone or looking at a small screen to do things like make calls, listen to music or get directions, you can do all those things with simple buttons on either your car’s built-in infotainment system or an Android Auto head unit.

Android Auto is intended to keep drivers’ eyes on the road and hands on the wheel by minimizing distractions as much as possible. For example, if you need directions, you just tell Google Maps where you want to go and it will give you turn-by-turn navigation without you having to touch anything.

Do I Need Android Auto On My Phone?

Android Auto is a game changer in the car. It’s not only safer to use your phone while driving, but it also provides many more useful and entertaining functions than the built-in infotainment system in your vehicle.

But Android Auto can be finicky. On top of this, you need a relatively new car to run Android Auto, and a pretty new smartphone as well to make it work. Not everyone has both of these things.

How Do I Use Android Auto In My Car?

If you have an Android phone, an Android app, and a compatible car, Android Auto lets you connect your phone to your car to use apps like Google Maps, Spotify, and Waze through the car’s built-in display.

The feature is increasingly common in new cars, but even if yours doesn’t have it built-in, you can install it with a few components.

Is There a Fee For Android Auto?

No. There is no fee to download the Android Auto. However, your mobile service provider may charge you for messages, data or other fees related to downloading and using the Android Auto app on your phone.

In conclusion, Google’s Android Auto is an all-in-one, worry-free solution for anyone who spends long hours behind the wheel. It’s worth noting, however, that if you have an Android device, you don’t even need to use a separate device; your phone will serve all the same purposes in a more portable way. Either way, you’ll know where your trip will lead before it even starts.