Android Auto is the operating system version of Google intended to work in the car. Provides a more efficient way to use essential driving tools, but without distracting yourself. Thanks to a specific application, with Android Auto the interface of the operating system is fully adapted to what we need in the car; with voice control and larger touch buttons, as well as visually simpler interfaces to avoid distractions.
What is Android Auto?
Android Auto It is a version of the Google operating system dedicated to working in your car, but it is not something different -completely- to Android as it can be Wear OS o Android Things. Android Auto is above all a change in the system interface to adapt its use to a new situation: driving. It is managed through a specific application, and is dependent on the operating system of the mobile device that we use. The idea is to present drivers with a screen that is safer to control and, at the same time, somewhat limits the functions of the smartphone. This makes it easier to receive step-by-step directions with Google Maps and without getting too distracted with a message from Whatsapp, among many others.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Az8TgdsYdo8
How Android Auto works
There are two great methods to use Android Auto, as you have seen in the video above:
Android Auto on mobile
For less modern cars, or with less technology, Android Auto It is available as an application for our smartphone. We would only have to use a support -suction cup, for example- and take advantage of all its functions on the mobile screen. If we connect the device via Bluetooth to the vehicle's audio system, the experience will be exactly the same except that the screen will be that of the mobile, and not the one integrated in the vehicle itself.
Android Auto integrated in the car
If our vehicle does have a multimedia screen -and touch- compatible with Android Auto, then we will make the connection with our smartphone by USB -in some it is wireless-. And indeed, we can enjoy Android Auto and all its functions directly in the vehicle's infotainment system. If Android Auto is updated, there is absolutely nothing to do in the car because the changes will be applied automatically.
You should be aware that the app will always be necessary to use Android Auto. The minimum requirements are to have a mobile that you use Android 5.0 Lollipop or higher, although they recommend having Android 6.0 Mashmallow onwards. Therefore, even if we are going to use this service from the smartphone, or directly on the screen of our vehicle, we must first have downloaded the application to the device.
In addition to using it connected to the car, you should take into account following:
- Bluetooth: It can be used to start the app automatically, but using a cable is still mandatory.
- USB cable requirements: Google recommends using a cable no longer than 1 meters. It is best to avoid using extension cords and opt for cables with the USB icon. If a cable stops working, they recommend changing it.
- Wireless connection via WiFi: This option was enabled in April 2018. However, at the moment it is only compatible with some Google phones. It is also through a WiFi connection, so it will consume more battery; and requires Android 8.0 Oreo or higher.
What functions does Android Auto offer to the driver?
As we say, the idea is to have a safe interface to use some functions of your mobile while driving. This means that what you can do with Android Auto is limited, but there are still options. Using the Play Store file as a reference, Google indicates various functions:
- GPS naviganator: The most obvious and demanded function. Use Google Maps or Waze to get directions where you need to go. The screen is exactly the same as the Maps navigation screen on your mobile.
- Free hands: To make and receive phone calls.
- Music player: Be it local music or streaming music with compatible apps. You can use Google Play Music, Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, Deezer, Slacker, TuneIn, iHeartRadio and Audible.
- Read and send messages with your voice: In order not to leave you totally incommunicado, your mobile will be able to read, if you ask it, the messages from the main instant messaging applications. It supports Hangouts, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Skype, Telegram, WeChat, Kik, Google Allo, etc. You can respond by dictating your message.
For an app to work, it must be compatible. If you don't want to get too complicated, just use the following link to access the official list of the Play Store. You will see that all the applications are grouped into one of the categories above.
Besides, you can also use Google Assistant with Android Auto. You have several examples of how to use it in this YouTube playlist:
What else should you know if you are going to use it in the car
Android Auto it is, in short, an application. And as such, it depends on the hardware-level performance of our smartphone. Therefore, all its functions and its general performance depend on the performance of our device. If we connect via Bluetooth, the sound system -both speakers and microphone that will work will be that of the vehicle, but the loading of applications and the use of their functions will depend on the CPU of the smartphone.
The older the device, the more likely it is that we will have problems with slowdowns and slowdowns. On the other hand, we must bear in mind that the battery consumption produced by Android Auto is important. Therefore, even if we use the application independently, on the smartphone, it is always advisable to use it connected by USB to food. And check, obviously, that the power supply is sufficient so that the device can be working constantly.
