The Android Auto Features You Should Be Using

Since its debut in 2015, Android Auto has undergone considerable development. It now includes a range of handy features designed to improve your driving experience.

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of key Android Auto features you should use. But first, let’s go over some essentials.

What is Android Auto

Android Auto connects your phone to your car by mirroring your smartphone on your car’s dashboard. This app makes driving easier and more convenient and prevents you from looking at or checking your phone while behind the wheel. Its features allow you to stay connected without taking your focus off the road.

How to Use Android Auto

Setting up Android Auto on Your Smartphone

Setting up Android Auto is easy.

First, you need to check if your car is compatible with Android Auto. Some auto manufacturers such as BMW (pre-2017) and Fiat Chrysler have their own systems that don’t support Android Auto. Other cars can get Android Auto through a software update. To check if your vehicle supports Android Auto, look up the year and the model or contact the manufacturer.

Second, you need to make sure that your Android is updated and is running Android 8.0 or higher to use the app. An important point to note is that to use Android Auto on your phone, it’s essential to have the Android Auto APK - an application file that allows the app to be installed and run on your smartphone. You may need to download an APK file to install Android Auto on your phone if you live in a region where the app isn’t available or officially supported.

How to Connect Android Auto

Wired vs. Wireless Connection

Your car can be connected to your smartphone either wirelessly or with a cable. Wired Android Auto requires a USB cable to connect to your Android. Compared to the wireless method, it ensures a stable, fast and straightforward setup process with uninterrupted performance.

The wireless method, on the other hand, requires a Wi-Fi connection or Bluetooth to connect with your phone, making it convenient for everyday use. However, it may offer slightly lower performance and experience connection issues.

Connecting via USB Cable

After you have installed the Android Auto app on your phone, connecting it to your car is straightforward. You will need to:

1. Get a high-speed USB cable.
2. Connect your phone using the cable.
3. Tap the Android Auto icon on your car's touchscreen display and follow the instructions on the display.

Connecting Android Auto Wirelessly

If you decide to connect your phone to the car wirelessly, follow the three-step instructions below.

1. Make sure your phone has an internet connection.
2. Check if your device supports a 5GHz wireless connection.
3. Put your car's dashboard display in Bluetooth pairing mode.
4. Find and tap the name of your car stereo at the bottom of the Bluetooth menu on your phone.

What if Your Car Doesn’t Support Wireless Android Auto?

If your phone supports wireless Android Auto but your car doesn’t, you can use a wireless Android Auto Adapter to enable wireless connection between your car’s system and your smartphone. This adapter removes the hassle of having to plug and unplug your phone every time you enter your car.

After setup, your phone will connect to Android Auto automatically whenever you get into the car. It's convenient for older models or vehicles that do not support wireless Android Auto by default but do allow for wired connections.

Android Auto Features You Should Be Using

Google Assistant Integration and Voice Control

When Google Assistant is enabled, you can use voice commands while driving. All you have to do is press and hold the voice button on your steering wheel, tap the microphone on the right bottom side of the car's screen or simply say “Hey Google.” After that, you can tell Google to play music from your favorite playlist, drive you to the nearby restaurant or check the weather.

This feature will make your driving experience easier, safer and more convenient. Forget about grabbing your phone to make or answer calls and enjoy the convenience of hands-free calling!

Optimized Media Player Experience

If you enjoy driving while listening to music, you know how essential it is to have the necessary music app for your Android Auto. The good news is that YouTube Music, Spotify and Pandora, among others, are supported by Android Auto.

Once you’ve connected your device, you can use the car’s touchscreen to control playback. Play, pause, skip songs or change the volume without taking your hands off the wheel!

Moreover, you can save your favorite tracks for offline listening, which is useful when traveling in areas with poor cell reception.

Hands-Free Message and Notification Management

Another great feature of Android Auto is that it allows you to send text messages using voice commands.

You will be asked to speak your message when you instruct Google Assistant to send a message to someone in your contact list. Your touchscreen will display any messages you receive, which you can respond to by voice or have Google read aloud to you.

Moreover, thanks to the on-screen shortcut feature, Google Assistant now provides simple reply suggestions that you can tap on to send fast.

Voice Command Control via Steering Wheel Button

Another convenient feature of Android Auto is the variety of ways you can activate the voice command. One of the most practical methods is using the voice button on the steering wheel, if your car has it. This feature enhances safety and convenience, reduces distractions and makes it easier to access Android Auto features while on the go.

Separate Volume Control For Music and Google Assistant

Android Auto allows you to adjust the music volume separately from the Google Assistant's voice volume.

When playing music at a high volume in the car, the Google Assistant’s voice can be intrusive and overpowering. With this feature, you can set a separate volume level for your music and another for the Google Assistant, ensuring a more balanced and comfortable listening experience.

Whether you prefer your music loud while keeping the Assistant’s voice at a more subtle level or vice versa, this feature offers a great way to create the perfect balance between the two.

Customizable App Shortcuts

Google’s 2022 Coolwalk design features app shortcuts, displaying the four most-used apps and allowing quick navigation between them without the need to open, close or search for apps. And, if you want to have two different apps open, such as your navigation map and music player, you can use the split-screen function. This feature makes it easier to access essential apps while keeping your focus on the road.

How to Disable Android Auto

For many users, Android Auto features simplify the driving experience. However, some might find it distracting or feel that it drains their phone's battery. If you believe Android Auto isn’t right for you, there are several ways to turn it off.

Turning Off Android Auto on Your Phone

You can manually disconnect Android Auto if you want to prevent it from starting each time you connect your phone to the car by following these steps:

1. Open your phone’s settings and tap on Connected Devices or Bluetooth & Device Connection.
2. Scroll down and select Previously Connected Cars.
3. Tap the three dots at the top-right corner and choose Forget All Cars.
4. Confirm the action.

Disabling Android Auto on Your Car's Infotainment System

If you'd rather not use Android Auto while your phone is connected, you can turn it off from your vehicle's settings. Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Settings menu on your car’s screen.
2. Tap on Connections or Smartphone Integration.
3. Find the Android Auto option and open it.
4. Select Disable or Turn Off to prevent Android Auto from launching when your phone is connected.

With Android Auto, driving is easier, safer and more convenient. This practical tool helps keep you focused on the road, reduces distractions and makes navigating through apps easier.

If you want to upgrade your car, consider getting one with Android Auto to transform your driving experience into something more enjoyable. And if you’re an Apple user, check out our article about Apple CarPlay's features.