Whether you're new to Android Auto or have been using it for a while and want to make it more practical, here's a clear guide to customizing the interface to your liking. Although the options are not endlessThere are enough adjustments to make the driving experience more comfortable, safe, and faster.
It's best to have realistic expectations: Android Auto allows for quite a bit of customization, but not everything.You can rearrange and hide apps, choose what appears closest to the driver, customize the background and theme, enable widgets in the taskbar, and create shortcuts. However, you can't completely redesign the interface like a mobile launcher.
What you can and can't change in Android Auto
Before we get down to business, let's clarify the scope of customization. What you can adjust includes the applications menu (order and visibility), the layout of the home screen (prioritize navigation or multimedia), the wallpaper, the light/dark theme, and some shortcuts and widgets.
On the opposite side, what you cannot changeThe system's bottom bar (the row of persistent buttons) cannot be repositioned or customized app by app; you also cannot move the icons to the side as in other systems, nor remove margins to force an "all screen" if the car adds padding by design.
There is also safety limitationsRecent versions of Android Auto restrict the use of non-essential apps while driving to minimize distractions. This means that some apps only work when the car is stationary.
Finally, the size and proportions of the content depend on the car's head unit. If your screen adds frames or barsThere are no Android Auto settings that "stretch" the image to take up more space than the vehicle's system allows.
How to access Android Auto settings
There are several ways to find the Android Auto settings on your phone. The most direct is through your phone's settings: Go to Settings and look for “Android Auto” in the top bar; tap the first match to open its specific options.
If you prefer to navigate through menus, there are two common paths. On many mobile devices, go to Connected devices > Connection preferences > Android AutoIn others, go to Settings > Apps, locate Android Auto and tap on “Additional app settings”.
The car's screen also has a settings panel with sections for display, theme, and background. Some options only appear on the phone (such as ordering apps), and others only from the car (such as changing the wallpaper in certain models).
If your Android skin varies slightly, don't worry: All roads lead to the same settings consoleThe important thing is to find the "Screen" block and the link to "Customize app menu".
Organize and clean up your app menu
The Android Auto launcher tends to display too many compatible apps, forcing you to scroll and causing distraction. The solution is twofold.Hide what you don't use and manually organize what you do.
Go into your phone's Android Auto settings and tap on Customize app menuYou'll see a list of compatible apps and, next to it, a switch to decide whether they're displayed or not. Uncheck the ones you don't want to see while driving.
Just above you can choose between alphabetical order or custom orderSelect the latter and drag each app to the position that's most useful to you. Typically, you'd place Google Maps or Waze at the top, then your music player (Spotify, YouTube Music, etc.), and your favorite messaging app; also learn to switch between music apps.
An important notice: It is not possible to decide what appears in the persistent bottom bar.That strip is managed by the system and cannot be edited, so focus on having the launcher with the key information handy.
If after changing the order you don't see the settings reflected in the car, disconnect and reconnect the USB cable. In wireless connectionsDeactivate and activate Bluetooth and verify that the mobile phone has data to synchronize.
Shortcuts to contacts and the Assistant
In addition to organizing apps, you can create specific buttons within the launcher for repetitive tasks. Go back to Customize app menu and tap on “Add shortcut to app menu”.
The first type of access worthwhile is “Call a contactYou select the person from your address book and Android Auto will create a dedicated icon to call with one tap, perfect for emergencies or regular contacts.
The second type is “Wizard ActionEnter the command you want (for example, "navigate home," "play my work playlist," or "read WhatsApp messages") and assign text to the button. This shortcut will appear in the menu as if it were an app.
These shortcuts reduce screen time and touches, improving security. Remember to keep them to the bare minimum.prioritizing truly frequent actions so as not to overload the pitcher.
Change the layout: navigation or multimedia near you
The Android Auto home screen can rearrange panels so that The most important thing should stay with the driver.This privileged space receives a larger "card" with accessible controls.
To choose the layout, open settings (on your mobile or in your car) and go into Change designThere you will see two approaches: “Navigation closer to the driver” or “Multimedia closer to the driver”.
If your priority is directions and a map, choose the first option so that the route instructions are always highlightedIf, on the other hand, you use the playback controls more, keep the music section handy. This choice will help you prioritize navigation according to your needs.
This change takes advantage of the available space and helps reduce hand movements. You don't choose app by app.but rather the type of content that takes visual priority in that area near the driver's seat.
Wallpaper, theme, and taskbar widgets
The visual appearance can also be tweaked. Let's start with the wallpaper: In many cars, this can be changed from the Android Auto settings in the vehicle., within the screen section, by tapping on “Wallpaper”.
This menu usually displays pre-installed images. Depending on the model and version, Android Auto may use the same background as the connected phone or display its own gallery. Choose a background that doesn't obstruct visibility icons and text; subdued tones usually work best.
Regarding the topic, you have light mode, dark mode, or automatic modeIt usually changes automatically based on the light sensor or the time of day, but you can force one or the other from the car's screen if you find it more convenient.
Don't forget the bottom bar, where you can activate the taskbar widgetsThis option gives you quick controls for compatible apps without opening them in full screen, which is useful for pausing music or viewing brief instructions.
Keep in mind that widgets are designed to minimize distractions; They do not replace the full app They only show the essentials. If your priority is to play just the right amount, they're a good complement to your chosen layout.
More useful settings for a comfortable experience
In addition to the aesthetics and the launcher, it's worth reviewing several settings that affect usability. In the Home section, you can activate Start Android Auto automatically Connecting your mobile phone, even with the screen locked, saves steps.
In “Connected Cars” you’ll see a list of vehicles where you’ve used Android Auto. From there you can manage links, delete old cars and check for possible pairing errors.
If you frequently check messages, customize your notifications so that Don't be constantly interruptedYou can limit what is shown and how, reducing distraction while driving.
Mobile screen on or off? In the app settings, you can decide whether the phone stays active while using Android Auto or turns off according to your preferences. Choose the option that's most practical for you. and for your battery consumption.
Finally, from the compatible apps section of Android Auto itself on your mobile phone, you will discover applications adapted to the car's format. Install only what you're going to use to avoid overloading the menu.
Tricks and features that fit with customization
Waze, for example, includes the option to consult prices of nearby gas stations from its side menu. It's a feature you can have at hand if you use it as your main browser.
For calls, Android Auto activates hands-free calling and lets you... call the last contact quickly From the home screen. If you also create shortcuts to your contacts, you'll save even more time.
Google Assistant shortcuts are especially useful: create buttons with frequently used voice commands and give them clear labels. One touch and donewithout navigating through multiple menus.
And remember that performance also affects the experience. If your phone is older, free up some storage space, avoid installing too many apps, and enable automatic start so that the connection is smoother every time you get into the car.
Troubleshooting and safety considerations
If you can't find "Customize app menu" or "Change layout", you most likely need to update. Check Google Play for pending versions. of Android Auto and check that your mobile is also up to date.
When changes made to your phone aren't reflected in your car, try the basics: Disconnect and reconnect the USB cableIn wireless mode, turn Bluetooth off and on; if the problem persists, remove the car from the connected list and pair again.
Remember that there are functions that the system will not allow while driving. Security restrictions are activated while driving to reduce risks, so some actions are limited until the vehicle is parked.
For security and legal reasons, configure everything before starting. Keep keystrokes to a minimum and rely on well-designed shortcuts. The road is the priority.Personalization is meant to help you, not to entertain you.
Quick FAQ
Can I put Android Auto in full screen by removing margins and padding? Generally, no. Those margins depend on the car's system and Android Auto does not offer a setting to remove them.
Can I move the icons to the side like in CarPlay? No. The position of structural elements (bottom bar, side areas) cannot be changed.
Where do I change the wallpaper? Usually, from the Android Auto settings on the car's screen, under "Display" > "Wallpaper". In some cases it syncs with the mobile phone's backgroundIf you're not convinced, choose one of the pre-installed ones.
Can the launcher be ordered from the car? No, the order and visibility of the app menu can be adjusted. They are edited from the mobile phoneIn “Customize app menu”. You’ll see the result in the car.
Are taskbar widgets worth enabling? Yes, if you're happy with quick and compact controls to pause music, change songs, or see directions without opening the entire app.
With all of the above, you have a map of everything that can be adjusted and the limits of the system: Clean up your launcher, organize the essentials, prioritize navigation or music, choose a readable background, adjust the theme, and create useful shortcuts.With these changes made, Android Auto becomes clearer, faster, and above all, more convenient to use without taking your eyes off what's important.
