What is Andoid Auto, and how do you use it in the car?

Before Android Auto came along, car manufacturers had big problems with their proprietary software for their car infotainment systems. They were often perfectly fine, but the big problem was that they became completely outdated and useless after just a few years.

Android Auto changed all that. The app, together with Apple's Carplay, is a sensible solution to that problem, as the apps are constantly updated. They simply never become "too old". With Android Auto, you can enjoy your infotainment system as long as you have your car.

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is an app that you download to your Android phone. It works with phones that have Android 6 or later – and starting with Android 10, you don't have to download it. It comes pre-installed on your Android phone. For Android 6-9, however, you have to download it manually from Google Play.

Android Auto is developed by Google and helps you seamlessly connect your phone to the touchscreen that is often found in newer cars. But Android Auto works even if you don't have a screen in your car.

Android Auto is a platform that brings your phone's functions to your car's dashboard. It gives you an interface that's easy to navigate and you can control it via voice commands. Some apps available for Android Auto are:

• Google Maps

• Spotify

• WhatsApp

• Waze

• Acast

• Swedish Radio Play

Here you can see a list of more apps for Android Auto

With Android Auto you can listen to music in the car, navigate traffic, listen to various podcasts and audiobooks. Of course you can also make calls and read/send messages.

Android Auto, like Apple Carplay, has been welcomed by car owners around the world. It makes it much safer to use your phone in the car without having to take it out and fiddle with its icons and functions. In Sweden, it is also prohibited.

So – do you have a car that supports Android Auto? There are currently over 50 car brands and 500 models that support the system, including Kia, Ford, VW, Skoda, Peugeot, Volvo and Toyota. On Android's own website you will find the list of all car models that support Android Auto .

How much does Android Auto cost?

Android Auto doesn't cost a penny to download or use. What it might cost is the price of a new stereo, if your car doesn't already support the app.

Many car manufacturers still install their own media solutions in their new cars. However, these are anything but free, as you often have to pay a rather expensive subscription fee to use them. Android Auto is free and often better than the car manufacturers' own solutions.

Worth knowing: You need internet access, and Android Auto requires some data traffic – for example, if you want to listen to music or when driving following directions on Google Maps. Therefore, it may be a good idea to get a mobile subscription with unlimited browsing.

When will Android Auto be available in Swedish?

For some reason, the Nordic countries had to wait a long time for Android Auto. But in the spring of 2021, it was finally time for Swedish drivers to join the “club”, along with Denmark and Norway, among others.

The app is now available for download on Google Play or on the Android website.

How does Android Auto work?

Android Auto lets you display your phone's apps on your car's screen. And there are basically 4 main areas it can help you with:

• Google Assisi

• Navigation

• Communication

• Entertainment

With the Google Assistant, you can focus on driving and use your voice to activate various features in Android Auto. To get started, just say “Hey Google.”

First, though, you need to pair your phone with your car's system. You can do this with a USB cable or wirelessly, in some car models. Start by downloading Android Auto. We also assume that your car and phone are compatible with Android Auto, so check this before downloading the app.

Connect via USB

• Use a high-quality USB cable and connect your phone to the infotainment system.

• Turn on the ignition in the car – make sure it is stationary.

• The system may ask you to download or update the Android Auto app.

• Complete the setup by following the on-screen instructions.

Connect wirelessly

• Launch the Android Auto app in your car, and download all the apps you need, such as Spotify and Google Maps.

• Give Android Auto permission to access your apps.

• If you pair your phone with Auto via Bluetooth, make sure Autolaunch is enabled. This way, you won't have to connect manually the next time you're ready to go.

Now everything is ready and you are ready to call on Google Assistant to get directions, listen to music or have your text messages read out – and much more.

To activate the Assistant, simply say “Hey Google.” You can also press and hold the voice command button on the steering wheel or tap the microphone icon on the touchscreen. Wait for a beep, then give your instructions to the Assistant.