What is Android Auto? A Short Guide.

If you’ve ever wondered if it’s possible to sync your phone with your car’s infotainment system, your hunch was right. Back in March 2015, Google introduced Android Auto, a mobile app designed to make driving safer, more connected, and less stressful. Over the years, Android Auto has become an essential tool for millions of drivers around the globe.

Without it, we at AAWireless wouldn’t have had the inspiration to create our innovative wireless Android Auto adapter,the very reason you’re reading this article!

In this short guide, we’ll break down what Android Auto is, explore its most popular features, and show you how to get the most out of it.

3 Reasons to Use Android Auto

Upgrading your car’s head unit to Android Auto is a practical choice for modern drivers. These are the three main reasons to make the switch:

1. Continuity of Multimedia

Imagine walking to your car, blasting music through your headphones, and already entering the address of your next stop in Google Maps. With Android Auto set up in your car, that multimedia experience continues seamlessly on your car screen.

Once you connect your phone, you can continue the app processes you were already using. Having useful apps at the ready while driving makes your trip much more enjoyable.

Continue app processes when getting in your car with Android Auto.

2. Enhanced Driving Safety

Safety is a standout feature of Android Auto. With voice-controlled Google Assistant, you can send messages, change music, or set destinations without taking your hands off the wheel.

The interface is designed for quick visibility, reducing distractions compared to standard units or handheld devices. By prioritizing hands-free operation, Android Auto helps keep your focus where it belongs,on the road.

Stay focused on driving while still having useful apps on your car screen.

3. Future-Proof Features

Head units, being hardware, can quickly fall behind in terms of innovation,but Android Auto is built for adaptability.

Regular updates bring new functionalities, ensuring your system stays current. From improved navigation to expanded app compatibility, Android Auto evolves alongside your smartphone, giving you access to the latest features without additional hardware upgrades.

In short, Android Auto provides continuity, enhanced safety, and a future-proof multimedia experience. It’s more than an upgrade, it’s a smarter way to drive.

How to Set Up Android Auto

At its core, Android Auto is a mobile app that allows you to access your phone’s features directly through your car’s infotainment screen (head unit). Whether you want to navigate using Google Maps, stream your favorite songs, or send hands-free messages, Android Auto is designed to help you stay connected while keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.

Here’s how to set up Android Auto:

Check Compatibility: Phone & Car

The first step is to check if your car and phone are compatible with Android Auto.

• For wired (USB) Android Auto, your phone should be running Android 9.0 or higher.
  
• For wireless Android Auto, you need at least Android 11.
  
  

Your car should be equipped with a head unit that supports Android Auto. It’s as simple as that.

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Check the Android Auto App

If you have a phone with Android 10 or higher, it should include Android Auto by default. If you’re having trouble getting Android Auto to start in your car, it’s always good to check if the app is installed on your phone.

Go to the Google Play Store, look up Android Auto, and check if it’s installed.

Connect Your Phone

You can connect your Android phone to your car:

• via a USB cable, or
• wirelessly with the AAWireless TWO adapter.
  
  

Tip: Want to go from wired to wireless? Then we recommend reading “How to make Android Auto wireless”.

Once connected, your car’s screen transforms into a simplified interface with large icons, voice controls, and easy-to-read text,perfect for on-the-go use. You can put away your phone and use apps for navigation, streaming, and messaging via your car’s display.

Get access to your apps on your car screen with Android Auto.

Popular and Useful Apps

One of the best aspects of Android Auto is its compatibility with a wide range of apps. These apps are optimized for driving, ensuring minimal distractions.

Here are some of the most popular and useful options:

Navigation

• Google Maps: The gold standard for navigation, offering real-time traffic updates, alternate routes, and voice-guided directions.
• Waze: A community-driven navigation app that provides alerts for speed cameras, road hazards, and traffic jams.
  

Music and Podcasts

• Spotify: Stream your favorite songs and playlists on the go.
  YouTube Music: Access music tailored to your preferences.
• Pocket Casts: Perfect for catching up on podcasts during long drives.
  

Communication

• WhatsApp: Send and receive voice messages or texts hands-free.
• Google Messages: Stay connected with SMS and RCS messages.
  

Voice Assistant

• Google Assistant – The cornerstone of Android Auto, allowing you to control apps, ask questions, and even check the weather using simple voice commands.
  
  

By integrating these apps into your car’s system, Android Auto turns every drive into a productive and enjoyable experience.

Here’s the full list of Android Auto–compatible apps.

Enjoy a vast range of Android apps you can use while driving, including Spotify, Waze, WhatsApp, and Google Maps.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Android Auto has revolutionized the driving experience by seamlessly integrating your smartphone with your car’s infotainment system. Its ability to provide uninterrupted multimedia, enhance safety through hands-free operation, and stay future-ready with regular updates makes it an indispensable tool for modern drivers.

Setting up Android Auto is straightforward, giving you quick access to essential features like navigation, music streaming, and hands-free communication. Its compatibility with popular apps such as Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant ensures a customized and distraction-free driving experience.

Whether you’re upgrading your car’s head unit or transitioning from wired to wireless connections, Android Auto is a smart investment for safer, more connected journeys. Embrace this technology to transform the way you drive today.

And with the AAWireless adapter, you can take your experience to the next level by going completely wireless. Say goodbye to cables and hello to a smarter, more seamless driving experience. Want to learn more about wireless Android Auto? We recommend reading our article “How to make Android Auto wireless”.

Ready to make the switch?

Get the AAWireless TWO adapter and take your driving experience to the next level.