If you've been using Google Maps for years and are considering upgrading to Petal Maps, it's normal to have questions about compatibility, features, and tricks to get the most out of it. Huawei's ecosystem has grown significantly, and its maps app has earned a place among mobile browsers, with interesting differences compared to what Google offers.
In the following lines, we'll go over in detail what Petal Maps offers compared to Google Maps, whether it can be used in Android Auto (and how to work around its limitations), and how it performs in the car, on a mobile phone, and even on watches with independent and collaborative navigation functions. You'll also see a practical method for projecting Petal Maps onto your car screen, even if it's not officially supported.
What is Petal Maps and how is it different from Google Maps?
Petal Maps is Huawei's navigation app that, over time, has matured to compete head-to-head with Google Maps in many everyday scenarios. Although Google Maps remains the most popular option, Petal Maps has earned a place for itself due to its eye focus and for practical details while driving.
Availability: Google Maps comes pre-installed on most Android phones, while Petal Maps is the default on Huawei devices. (who don't use Google services due to the already known restrictions). Today, installing Google apps on a Huawei is possible, although it requires a process that many users find cumbersome; that's why many choose to stay with Petal Maps if they are already within the Huawei ecosystemConversely, you can also download Petal Maps on virtually any Android device.
Coverage and real-time data: Google Maps has a larger database, better live information, and greater accuracy, especially outside of cities., where Petal Maps may fall a bit short. Google's massive data infrastructure is evident in traffic, incidents, and points of interest. Even so, Petal Maps has reduced the gap and, in the city, generally offers a solid experience.
Features: Google Maps takes advantage with Street View and 3D maps, plus highly detailed public transit and built-in reviews/translationsThese are extras that many take for granted, and they make a difference when choosing a car. Petal Maps, on the other hand, stands out for its clearer on-screen navigation and small details designed for the driver.
Privacy and Focus: Petal Maps boasts a more privacy-focused approach and integration with the Huawei ecosystem.. If you value that balance, it can tip the scales in your favor., especially when the coverage is sufficient for your day-to-day life.
TomTom's footprint: Petal Maps' navigation experience is influenced by TomTom's long heritage., with a route display reminiscent of classic GPS navigators: clear, fluid, and easy to follow when things get complicated.
Can Petal Maps be used on Android Auto?
Natively, no: Petal Maps is not compatible with Android Auto because the vehicle platform relies on Google services and Huawei cannot integrate them.There's no sign of this changing anytime soon, so don't expect to see the "official" Petal Maps icon on your car.
Where it does work is on Huawei HiCar, Huawei's equivalent to Android Auto.If your vehicle or multimedia system supports HiCar, you can use Petal Maps directly. In Android Auto, the alternative is to project your phone's screen to "force" its use on the car console.
The trick: project Petal Maps on Android Auto with Fermata Auto
The most direct way to bring Petal Maps to Android Auto is to use the app on your phone and project its screen into the car.For this purpose, there are tools like CarStream, although the most comprehensive and versatile option recommended by many users is Fermata Auto.
Fermata Auto is a free and powerful set of unofficial apps for Android Auto.. His idea is simple: allow you to view phone content on the car system. Its package includes four components that are worth knowing:
- Fermata Auto: mobile-style player for watching DTT, local videos and YouTube with a player based on the web version of the service.
- Fermata Mirror: mobile screen mirroring with a launcher where you pin your favorite apps. It is the key piece to run Petal Maps on Android Auto and opens the door to using almost any app on your phone.
- Fermata FS Mirror: same as Mirror but full screen (FS = Full Screen). Ideal if you prioritize video on a big screen with the car stopped, although for maps the panel mode may be more convenient.
- Fermata Media Service: audio player according to Google specifications. Doesn't play video, focuses on music and podcasts, similar to the Fermata player on Google Play.
For Petal Maps, the key module is Fermatta Mirror, as it allows you to launch the Huawei app from a launcher built into Android Auto. All modules are installed in a single package.
Fermata Auto Requirements and Installation
Download the Fermata Auto APK from its GitHub repository and enable the installation of apps from unknown sources on your phone.Make sure you get the latest version to avoid crashes and improve compatibility with Android Auto.
Enable Android Auto developer options and allow apps from unknown sources within Android Auto.This step is essential for Fermata Mirror to be visible in the car.
If Fermata Mirror doesn't appear, go to the developer options and under "Application Mode" choose "Developer"With this setting, you'll see an app in the car called "Car Apps," and within it, Fermata Mirror should be visible so you can launch it without any issues.
The first time you open Fermata Mirror you will need to grant several permissions on your phone.: overlay, access to notifications in some cases and, very importantly, accessibility permission. The latter requires unrestricting the app's permissions. in the system settings so that it can stay active and broadcast the screen correctly.
Once configured, add Petal Maps to the Fermata Mirror launcher. Tap the “+” button, check the Petal Maps box, and you’ll have the shortcut ready in Android Auto to open whenever you want.
Limitations and tips for using Petal Maps with Android Auto
Petal Maps' orientation adapts to horizontal only when you're on route; outside of navigation, it can remain vertical.On typical panoramic car screens, this translates into a poorly optimized view until you start your journey.
Black bands may appear if the aspect ratio of the phone does not match that of the car screen.This is normal when mirroring screens, and there's not always a way to completely eliminate them. When the projection works, the result is very good, but keep in mind that it will depend on your phone's format and head unit.
Remember that Fermata is an unofficial solution: use it with common sense and avoid manipulating the screen while driving.The ideal is to prepare the route before starting the walk and, if you need to touch something, stop safely.
The navigation experience: Where Petal Maps shines vs. Google Maps
The main visual difference is that the Petal Maps route line doesn't cover the entire road, but rather the lanes you actually need to travel in.This selective shading makes it much more intuitive to get into the right lane early, especially on highways with multiple exits, junctions, and interchanges.
Additionally, the animation is smoother and the default zoom is usually a bit closer.This combination reduces the need to "read" the map in detail while driving, because the most relevant information (where to go and which lane to occupy) jumps out more naturally.
Another very useful hint is the option to “be on or under the bridge” when the GPS is unsure.In environments with overlapping lanes, service roads, tunnels and overpasses, positioning can be confusing; With that button you correct the situation in one touch and avoid wrong directions that could send you to the wrong exit.
All of this translates into more “driver-like” navigation in the style of the dedicated GPS systems of yesteryear.While Google Maps is excellent for data and points of interest, Petal Maps' route representation can be more clear when the road gets complicated.
Quick comparison: pros and cons
Advantages of Google Maps: gigantic database, more accurate and widespread real-time information, Street View, 3D maps and a very complete social/commercial layer. Its coverage in rural areas and its integration with Google services continue to set the pace..
Advantages of Petal Maps: Very clear visual lane guidance, smoother animations and useful zoom to avoid missing details, and details such as the quick adjustment of “up/down the bridge”. If you use Huawei phones or value a more private approach, its integration into the ecosystem is a plus..
Petal Maps Limitations: In rural areas it may have less data and in extra functions (Street View, 3D) it is behind. Also, it doesn't have native support for Android Auto., so you have to use a screen mirror if you want to see it in the car.
Petal Maps in the Huawei ecosystem and on watches
In the car, Petal Maps officially works on Huawei HiCar, the alternative to Android Auto.If your media system supports it, you'll have native integration without any additional tricks.
On watches, Petal Maps offers two very practical usage modes: independent navigation (walking or cycling without having to carry your phone) and collaborative navigation (syncs the route started on your phone to your watch). This allows you to check turns and heading at a glance on your wrist., especially useful when you are walking or cycling.
Quick questions that often arise
Is Petal Maps sufficient for everyday life in Spain? For urban environments, yes: it works reliably and guides well in the city. In rural areas or with less data density, Google Maps usually comes out ahead. both in precision and real-time information.
What advantages does Petal Maps have over Google Maps? Its visual approach to routing and lane guidance, smooth animations, and the "under/over the bridge" button for in uncertain situations stand out. It also integrates well into the Huawei ecosystem and emphasizes privacy. Share the information so that other users know about the tool.