Juggling tasks while driving is risky, but it’s a common habit. Whether you’re checking directions on Google Maps, playing yourdownloaded songs from Spotify, or sending a quick text, your eyes must remain on the road despite these distractions. The infotainment systems in modern cars, with their buggy and frustrating OSes, make this a tall order. This is where Android Auto steps in, offering features of thebest Android phoneswhile helping drivers focus on what matters most. Here’s how it works.

What is Android Auto, and how does it work?

Android Auto transforms your car’s dashboard into a smart mobile command center. Plug your Android smartphone into your car using a USB cable or connect wirelessly via Wi-Fi or mobile data, and your car’s dashboard mirrors the familiar Android interface. You can then enjoy apps like Waze, WhatsApp, and Audible on a clutter-free, driver-focused interface.

Check outGoogle’s list of compatible appsif you’re curious if your favorite app works with Android Auto.

Android Auto Home Screen with apps overlayed on background with blurred car interior

Android Auto brings Google Assistant to your dashboard for easy hands-free access. It also sits atop your car’s infotainment setup, letting you switch between Android Auto and your vehicle’s features.

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How can Android Auto use Google Assistant?

Google Assistant seamlessly integrates into Android Auto. Simple voice commands like “Hey Google” or tapping the microphone icon activate the assistant. This feature lets you easily set reminders, make calls, and navigate routes hands-free.

To get started, ask for directions to the nearest gas station or parking spot. Although it can’t tackle vehicle-specific functions, like adjusting the seats, it handles tasks like playing music. It also controls smart home devices with an active data connection.

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How to find out if your phone works with Android Auto

If you prefer a wired connection, connect Android Auto to your car display using ahigh-quality USB cableif your Android phone runs version 8.0 or higher.

For a wireless connection, your device should support 5GHz Wi-Fi and run on Android 11.0 or higher. Google and Samsung smartphones using Android 10.0 meet this requirement.Google also saysthat Samsung Galaxy S8, S8+, and Note 8 with Android 9.0 are compatible.

The welcome screen for Android Auto with the message, “Use apps on your car screen.” Below this text is an illustration of a car dashboard with a display showing various app icons like Google Maps and Spotify.

If your phone runs Android 9.0 or below, download the Android Auto app. It’s built into phones with Android 10 and above. Find out what software your phone runs by going toSettings>About>Android Version. Also, checkSettings>System>System Updateand see if a newer software version is available.

How to find out if your car works with Android Auto

It’s rare to find a carmaker that doesn’t include Android Auto in its latest models. The odds are in your favor, with more than 500 vehicles supporting Android Auto.Use our latest guideto check if your new car supports this feature.

Google providesa list of countriesthat support Android Auto, along withcompatible vehicles and stereosif you have aftermarket upgrades.

A setup screen for Android Auto is displayed, requesting permission to turn on Bluetooth, pair and sync contacts with the car, and allow the car to access and display notifications from the phone.

How to set up Android Auto in your vehicle with a USB cable

Connecting your phone to your car with a USB cable is all it takes to use Android Auto. Your phone must have the Android Auto software installed, and your car must support the app. Here’s how to do it:

How to set up wireless Android Auto in your vehicle

Android Auto offers a wireless option for a cleaner setup without wires. Here’s how to set it up:

Does Android Auto take control of your car?

Android Auto does not allow control of built-in car systems, such as cruise control or air conditioning. However, it interacts minimally with the vehicle, such as muting music streams when a warning or alert sounds.

Google Maps for Android Auto will collect battery data from electric cars in future updates, asGoogle announced during CES 2024. With this feature, the app tracks and displays real-time battery information and adjusts your driving route autonomously according to the car’s battery needs.

An Android Auto data notice is shown, informing the user that they are responsible for any data charges and that many features require a wireless data connection.

Smarter and uniform dashboard across different cars

Android Auto’s standardized dashboard adapts to your smartphone settings, making the experience of switching cars smoother. While there are stillareas for improvement, Google is refining and enhancing Android Auto. If you use an iPhone and are considering moving from Apple CarPlay, check out ourAndroid Auto and CarPlay comparison.