Android Auto is a smartphone projection standard developed by Google to allow mobile devices running the Android operating system (version 5.0 “Lollipop” and later) to be operated in automobiles through the dashboard’s head unit. The standard offers drivers control over GPS mapping/navigation, music playback, SMS, telephony, and web search; both touchscreen and button-controlled head unit displays will be supported, although hands-free operation through voice commands is emphasized to ensure safe driving. Compatible apps include Google Maps, Google Play Music, MLB at Bat, Spotify, Songza, Stitcher, iHeart Radio, and TuneIn.
Functionality
The aim of Android Auto is to extend the functionality of an Android mobile device in an automobile to the dashboard’s head unit. In order to use the system, users must be running Lollipop on their mobile device and must own a vehicle supporting Android Auto.[1] The driver’s Android device connects to the vehicle via USB cable.[2] Rather than running its own operating system, the head unit will serve as an external display for the Android device, which runs all of the software, by presenting a car-specific user interface built into Lollipop.
- GPS mapping/navigation
- Music control
- Telephony
- SMS composition and playback
- Web search
Car hardware support
With Android Auto, a driver’s mobile device will have access to several of the automobile’s sensors and inputs:
Car hardware Available to mobile device
GPS and high-quality GPS antennas Yes
Steering-wheel mounted buttons Yes
Sound system Yes
Directional speakers Yes
Directional microphones Yes
Wheel speed Yes
Compass Yes
Car data Under development
Mobile antennas Yes
For the road ahead
Android Auto was designed with safety in mind. With a simple and intuitive interface, integrated steering wheel controls, and powerful new voice actions, it’s designed to minimize distraction so you can stay focused on the road.
Overview
Android Auto automatically brings you useful information, and organizes it into simple cards that appear just when they’re needed.
What you need
To use Android Auto, you need an Android Auto compatible vehicle or aftermarket radio and an Android phone running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher. When you connect your Android phone to the compatible vehicle or radio, Android Auto will display applications on the vehicle’s screen.
Maps
Let Google Maps lead the way. It’s easy to get where you’re going with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance, and more
Music
With Android Auto you get 90 days of Google Play Music, on us. With on-demand access to 30 million songs, Google Play Music allows you to stream endless music on the road (and anywhere else you want to listen), ad-free.
Communication
Make phone calls or send and receive messages while keeping your hands on the wheel.
Voice
Just say the word—Best-in-class speech technology makes controlling everything with your voice fast and easy.
Apps
Android Auto makes it easy to access your favorite apps and content in the car. Check out more Apps for Android Auto at g.co/androidauto
What you need
To use Android Auto, you need an Android Auto compatible vehicle or aftermarket radio and an Android phone running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher.
When you connect your Android phone to the compatible vehicle or radio, Android Auto will display applications on the vehicle’s screen.
