Google Maps has become the go-to navigation app for Android Auto in the car. Despite its widespread use and intuitive design, this tool hides a number of tricks and features that many drivers are unaware of, and which can make a big difference in everyday driving.
If you're one of those who connect their phone to Android Auto to use the GPS but feel like things could be a little smoother, this article is for you. In these lines, you'll discover a detailed compilation of little-known features, settings, and tricks to get the most out of Google Maps on Android Auto, with the goal of making your trips much more comfortable, safe, and efficient.
Using Google Maps on Android Auto: Avoid typing directions from the car screen
One of the most common mistakes Android Auto users make is trying to enter the destination address directly into the vehicle's display. Typing with a car's digital keyboard is usually slow, inaccurate, and especially dangerous if you're already on the move.. Plus, if you try to use Google Assistant and it doesn't properly recognize your destination, you may end up frustrated before you even get started.
The solution is very simple: Enter the address in Google Maps from your mobile phone before connecting it to the carThis way, when the Android Auto interface appears, your route will already be ready. If you need to change the route, do so only when you're stopped and tap "Start" again to update the map on your car's screen. In addition to being faster, this method reduces the risk of distraction while driving.
Swipe the directions bubble to anticipate the route from Google Maps in Android Auto
Have you ever been driving and not been quite sure what maneuver is coming next? Google Maps on Android Auto always shows you the next turn or exit, but it doesn't give you a complete view of the rest of the route., which can be a problem on highways with many exits, large roundabouts, or complex streets.
Luckily, there's a trick that almost no one knows: You can slide your finger over the speech bubble with the current prompt (usually at the top of the screen) and manually advance between all future maneuvers.This way, you get a clear idea of what's ahead without touching the map or zooming in. This simple gesture allows you to virtually navigate your route and be prepared for what's coming up, which is especially useful in unfamiliar cities or on unfamiliar roads.
This trick not only works on Android Auto, it's also available on the mobile version of the app, so you can study an entire route without having to start driving.
Use the 3D view to better navigate large cities.
When driving in dense urban environments, it's easy to get lost among intersections, buildings, and similar streets. To make finding your way around easier, Google Maps has a 3D view function which allows you to see silhouettes and basic shapes of buildings, which can help you better locate yourself visually.
The 3D view is not enabled by default, but You can enable it from your mobile by tapping the layers icon (the three overlapping lines) and selecting the '3D View' option.This view will remain when you connect your phone to the car and will automatically display in Android Auto. This will help you more clearly identify landmarks, intersections, or significant buildings during navigation.
Combine Google Maps with other apps to enhance your navigation experience on Android Auto.
Although Google Maps is a very comprehensive application, there are aspects where other specialized apps can provide more. For example, Waze or specific apps like "Fixed and Mobile Radars" usually offer better radar or traffic incident alerts..
Thanks to Android Auto's Coolwalk interface, You can have multiple apps on screen at once in a tile-style layoutThis way, you can keep Google Maps in the foreground for navigation, while another app in the background provides audible alerts for speed cameras or obstacles without interrupting your route. Simply open the companion app with alerts enabled, then reopen Google Maps in the foreground. This combination turns your car into a much more comprehensive multimodal system.
Improve navigation in tunnels with the help of Bluetooth beacons
One of the weak points of GPS-based navigation systems is the loss of signal in long tunnels or underground roads. If you regularly drive through urban environments with tunnels, such as those on the M-30 in Madrid, you've probably become disoriented more than once. Google Maps may freeze or even lose track of your route..
To solve this problem, Google includes a feature called “Bluetooth Tunnel Beacons”This option isn't enabled by default, but you can enable it from the navigation settings in the mobile app. Just go to 'Settings,' then 'Navigation,' and there you'll find the option to activate beacons. With this setting, The app will be able to continue providing accurate navigation even when there is no GPS signal, using Bluetooth signals installed in the tunnels..
Automatically launch music and other apps when you connect Android Auto
If you're one of those people who always puts on music or a podcast when you start your car, Android Auto has options to make your life easier. In the settings of the Android Auto app on your phone, you can go to the 'Start' y activate the 'Start music automatically' optionThis way, the app you usually use—Spotify, YouTube Music, or whatever—will start playing right when you connect your phone.
And not only that. You can also customize which apps you want to see in the car interface and in what order.From the 'Customize App Drawer' section, you can reorder your apps and keep the most important ones within easy reach, saving time and avoiding unnecessary distractions when searching for your favorite apps on the screen.
Avoid distractions by configuring notifications and messages
For many drivers, Message notifications can be a major distraction if they appear on your screen while driving.From Android Auto's settings, you can decide whether or not you want notifications to be displayed, and in what format. You can choose to display only notifications without content, turn off sounds, or mute them altogether. This reduces interruptions and improves your focus on the road.
Make calls faster and with favorite contacts
Another useful trick is to keep your most frequent contacts organized. If you select favorites in your mobile Contacts app, they will be the ones that appear first when you press the call button in Android Auto.This saves time and makes it easier to communicate without having to search for numbers or use the virtual keyboard.
Use Google Assistant efficiently
Google Assistant is a valuable tool for controlling functions without having to touch the car screen. From searching for music to starting routes, adding reminders, or asking about the weather. You can say “Ok Google” or tap directly on the microphone icon on the Android Auto screen.You can also customize its behavior from the voice detection section in your phone's settings.
Explore new apps and manage your car's connections
If you want to add more features, Android Auto lets you install compatible apps from the Google Play Store itself.There's a dedicated section within the app where you can discover messaging, music, navigation, and more, all tailored to work safely in the car.
Additionally, in Settings, you can see a list of all the cars you've connected your Android Auto to. From there, you can delete old vehicles, manage new connections, and view rejected cars if there were sync issues.
Using Google Maps on Android Auto goes far beyond simply following a blue line. With proper setup, the use of other apps, some pre-settings, and a few simple gestures, you can transform your driving experience into something more comfortable, safe, and efficient. Share the guide so other users can learn how to use the tool..