Driving assistance systems are a perfect solution for driving much more safely. And one of them is the best options is Android Auto. We are talking about a system that allows drivers to access applications and functions of their mobile phones safely and without distractions.
So, if you have a compatible vehicle, you are considering buying an Android Auto system for your car, or you don't know what it is, we'll tell you How Android Auto works and everything you need to know.
What is Android Auto?
Let's start at the beginning: Android Auto is a software platform created by Google that projects the interface of your mobile phone onto the screen of your car. In this way, The driver can interact with mobile applications using the car's controls, voice commands or the touch screen, if the system allows it.
The Android Auto interface is designed specifically for driving, minimising the need to touch your phone by providing quick access to essential apps and functions.
In addition, It has a minimalist design with a focus on voice controls, which makes it easy to use without the driver losing attention from the road. And by synchronizing with your smartphone, you can communicate with your contacts or open your apps comfortably. For example, access that Spotify playlist you like so much.
What are the minimum requirements to use Android Auto?
PFor Android Auto to work properly, there are certain minimum requirements that both the mobile phone and the car must meet.
- Android 8.0 Oreo or higher.
- The app must be installed on your phone. On many recent devices, it comes pre-installed; otherwise, you can download it from Google Play.
- Android Auto requires USB cable connection Or, on some compatible cars and phones, you can use wireless Android Auto, but this depends on the car model and phone version.
Until recently, you could use Android Auto even if your vehicle wasn't compatible or didn't have an infotainment system. It lost features, but it was still functional. But now, the car must have an infotainment system compatible with Android Auto.
Yes, before the mobile app was independent, but now Android Auto works by projecting the interface on your car's screen, so you need a vehicle with a central screen.
How Android Auto works
Regarding the operation of Android Auto, the website of this service explains it better than ever “Connect your phone to your car’s screen and all your Android apps will appear. It’s that easy. Tap to get directions or speak to send a text. You can even call your mom just by using your voice. Android Auto is designed to reduce distractions on the road so you can enjoy the ride. Just connect your phone and go.”
Or what is the same: Android Auto mirrors your smartphone so you can have your favorite apps on your car's entertainment screen. Obviously, with a personalized interface so that you can access all kinds of functions in the most comfortable way.
As if that weren't enough, Android Auto works with voice commands, so you can perform all kinds of actions in the most comfortable way. Sounds good, right? Let's see how to configure this driving assistant.
What is Android Auto for?
Android Auto allows you to perform many of your mobile phone's functions from the comfort of your car's screen, with a special focus on safety and reducing distractions. And seeing all the advantages of Android Auto, it is worth trying.
GPS
Navigation is one of the most useful features of Android Auto. You can use Google Maps or Waze to get precise, real-time directions, view traffic, and receive alerts about incidents on the road. Android Auto allows you to control the GPS using voice commands, so you just need to say “Ok Google, take me to…” and the assistant will take care of the rest.
Calls and messages
One of the best features of Android Auto is its voice commands. You can dictate and send text messages, reply with predefined messages or listen to your incoming messages without taking your eyes off the road. Integration with Google Assistant is also improving, since they have opted for Gemini. So very soon Android Auto will be even more complete.
Your best companion if you listen to music
Another advantage of Android Auto is access to music and entertainment apps, such as Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and more. You can select playlists, radio stations, and podcasts, all controlled by voice commands or the car's controls.
Real-time information
Android Auto can display relevant notifications while you're driving, such as calendar event reminders, the weather, or quick news. If you want to stay fully focused, you can block this option.
Google Assistant on Android Auto: a digital copilot
And what about Assistant, which as we have said before is very complete. You will be able to ask it for many things, and the integration with Gemini will improve even more.
For example, try these voice commands:
- “Ok Google, take me home.”
- “Ok Google, call Juan.”
- “Ok Google, play my travel playlist.”
- – “Ok Google, take me to work”
- – “Ok Google, write a WhatsApp message to Juan”
How to set up Android Auto
Setting up Android Auto is pretty quick and easy. Here are the basic steps to get up and running: Keep in mind that Android Auto needs access to certain phone features, such as calls, contacts, and location. When you set it up for the first time, the app will ask you to accept these permissions.
- Install the Android Auto app. If it does not come pre-installed on your phone, download it from the Google Play store.
- Connect your mobile to the car. Please note that for the first setup, you will need to connect your phone via a USB cable to your car's port. Some compatible vehicles and phones allow wireless connection, but not all models.
- Best of all, you can customize the interface. Android Auto lets you adjust the order of apps and choose which apps are available on the home screen. Go through all the options one by one and select what interests you.
Once set up, every time you connect your phone to the car, the Android Auto interface will automatically appear on the vehicle's screen.
Now that you know how Android Auto works and everything you need to know, we recommend you try this complete driving assistant.
