Google developed Android Auto for motorists who are frustrated with their car’s native infotainment system. Like rival software Apple CarPlay, Android Auto gives drivers the choice of embedding a well-known, smartphone-like interface into their touchscreen.
Setting up Android Auto may be a straightforward process, and it’s relatively easy to use. Here’s what you would like to understand.
How to set up Android Auto to run on the phone’s screen
Unlike Apple CarPlay, which runs only on a vehicle’s infotainment screen, Android Auto can run directly on mobile in cars that either doesn’t have a screen or can’t run the software. The functionality is that the same because it would get on the in-dash screen, but it allows the user to play audio over Bluetooth rather than connect. No matter the connection, the essential Android Auto functionality is that the same. To urge started:
- Make sure your device is running a minimum of Android 5.0 (Android 6.0 is recommended)
- If you’re using Android 9 or lower, you’ll get to download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store. Android 10 (the latest version as of writing) comes with the app inbuilt.
Once you’ve downloaded the app and checked your phone’s OS, you’ll get to start the app for the primary time. Your phone may ask you to download updates to other apps that are employed by Android Auto, like Google Maps. The app also will require you to review a security notice and acknowledge terms and conditions, but only the primary time you employ Android Auto.
How to set up Android Auto to run with a USB connection
Just like running Android Auto on the device’s screen itself, employing a wired USB connection requires that you have a tool that’s running a minimum of Android 5.0, but there’s an additional step involved within the vehicle’s settings. You’ll get to confirm that your car is compatible with Android Auto (dozens are), which it’s enabled in your car. the primary time you connect your phone, you’ll be prompted to download the Android Auto app if you don’t have it already. If you’re running Android 10 or higher, the app is already included.
To complete the setup:
- Make sure your vehicle is running and safely parked
- Unlock your phone’s screen
- Pair your phone and car via Bluetooth
- Update any required apps, like Google Maps
- Review the security reminder
- Turn on notifications for Android Auto.
Until you disable it, Android Auto will auto-start whenever you plug your phone in.
How to update Android Auto
There’s excellent news for people that worry about software updates. Android Auto is straightforward to stay up-to-date using the Google Play Store. Since the software runs totally on your phone, you shouldn’t get to make any significant updates to your vehicle’s infotainment system. If one is required, you’ll likely receive it via an over-the-air (OTA) software update pushed directly by the manufacturer or as a part of a regular check-up at an approved shop or dealership.
How to use Android Auto
The 2019 update brought a redesigned interface and new features to Android Auto. Previously, many consumers thought it had been a somewhat bare-bones system. Switching from an Android smartphone to Android Auto felt anything but seamless. Thankfully, improvements to the planning have us rethinking the system’s previous evaluation. The overhaul starts with the system’s menus. Rather than a “launcher bar” at the screen’s rock bottom, the updated interface has an app drawer. The drawer looks very similar to the one on the phone itself. There’s a replacement launch screen that takes the place of the house screen from previous versions. Now, once you connect your phone, you’ll see the navigation app with a gaggle of suggested destinations. The system is sensible and can remember whether you were using Google Maps or Waze as your navigation software. Music or a podcast will start playing automatically also. You’ll again disable the feature, though. There’s a home button on each screen of the interface that will return you to the app launcher. From there, you’ll select a particular function.
Getting the foremost out of the app is simple. Tap the icon as you’d on your phone to use the app. The app won’t close until you opt to modify apps. it’ll also close if you unplug your phone or close up your engine. Many of the utilization of full features operate through the use of voice-control. This is often undeniably convenient for drivers because it frees up their hands. There are also clearly-labeled and easy-to-read app icons and menus for when it’s safe to navigate by sight.
Google assistant is sure to satisfy your needs. Because of the favorite voice system on the market, you’re getting to enjoy what it’s to supply. Google Assistant features nearly all of the equal things in your car because it does on your phone. you’ll invite directions or find the closest gasoline station and make calls. you’ll set and edit reminders on the go and obtain updates on tasks throughout the day. you’ll even invite music by the title, group, or genre.
The wonderful thing about Android Auto is that its growth potential. We’ve barely scratched the surface of what the software is capable of. it’ll be interesting to stay an eye fixed out for what the platform will appear as if and be capable of in years to return. Because the years pass, infotainment systems improve exponentially. It’s up to Android to stay up the pace and offer software that matches the vehicle’s capabilities. Per annum, more and more companies are deciding to equip their cars with Android Auto. If your next car purchase is correct to round the corner, don’t be surprised to seek running Android Auto. For Android fans, pairing with Android Auto may be a welcome experience whenever they get in their vehicle.
