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Understanding Android Auto and What Apps Work With It

Android Auto is a system that lets you use your smartphone in your car through a dashboard display or head unit. It was released by Google in 2014 and has become a standard feature in millions of vehicles. The system connects wirelessly or through a USB cable to your vehicle's infotainment system, which is the screen and controls in your dashboard.

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Android Auto works differently than simply mirroring your phone's screen. Instead, it shows a simplified, car-friendly interface designed specifically for safe driving. The display includes larger text, bigger buttons, and voice control features so you can keep your eyes on the road. When you connect your phone to Android Auto, you're not seeing your entire phone screen—you're seeing a special version of certain apps.

Not all apps work with Android Auto. Google maintains a list of compatible apps that have been designed to work safely while driving. These apps fall into several categories: navigation and maps, music and podcasts, messaging and calling, weather, and parking. As of 2024, there are hundreds of apps available for Android Auto, with new ones being added regularly.

Your phone must run Android 6.0 or higher to use Android Auto. Most modern Android phones meet this requirement. The car's infotainment system must also support Android Auto, either through the original system or through an aftermarket head unit that you can install. If your vehicle is newer than 2015, there's a good chance it already has Android Auto compatibility.

Practical takeaway: Before looking for specific apps, confirm that your phone runs Android 6.0 or newer and that your vehicle supports Android Auto. Check your car's manual or manufacturer website to see if your model year includes this feature, or research aftermarket options if your vehicle doesn't have built-in support.

Navigation and Maps Apps Available at No Cost

Navigation is one of the most popular uses for Android Auto. Google Maps is the default navigation app and comes built into Android Auto at no charge. Google Maps provides real-time traffic information, route alternatives, and turn-by-turn directions. It also shows gas stations, restaurants, and other points of interest along your route. The app has been refined since its launch and continues to receive updates that improve accuracy and features.

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Waze is another major navigation option that works with Android Auto. Waze is owned by Google and focuses on community-reported information about traffic, accidents, and road hazards. Users can report slowdowns, police speed traps, and obstacles, which helps other drivers avoid problems. Waze often finds faster routes than Google Maps because it uses this real-time community data. Both apps are available at no cost.

HERE WeGo is a navigation alternative that emphasizes detailed map information and works offline in many areas. This can be useful if you're traveling in regions with poor cellular coverage. HERE WeGo is free to use, though some features may require an account.

OsmAnd is a navigation app based on OpenStreetMap data. It allows offline maps for many countries, which means you can navigate without using cellular data. This feature saves on data usage and helps in areas with weak signals. OsmAnd has both free and paid versions, with the free version offering substantial features.

Most navigation apps offer voice guidance, which is essential for safe driving. You can hear turn-by-turn instructions without looking at the screen. This feature works well with Android Auto's voice control system, allowing you to start navigation using voice commands.

Practical takeaway: Google Maps and Waze are excellent no-cost options that cover most navigation needs. If you frequently travel to remote areas or want to avoid using cellular data, explore offline-capable options like OsmAnd. Test your preferred navigation app in Android Auto before relying on it for an important trip.

Music, Podcast, and Audio Streaming Services

Android Auto supports numerous music and audio apps that let you play your favorite content through your vehicle's speakers. Spotify is one of the most popular options, with over 500 million users worldwide. Spotify offers access to millions of songs, curated playlists, and personalized recommendations. A free tier exists, though it includes advertisements between songs and has some feature limitations compared to the paid subscription.

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YouTube Music works with Android Auto and provides access to official music videos, covers, and remixes. YouTube Music's free tier includes ads, while the paid subscription removes advertisements and allows offline listening. If you have a Google account, you may already have access to some YouTube Music features.

Apple Music is available through Android Auto for users who subscribe to Apple's music service. This app integrates with iCloud and provides access to Apple's music library, which includes exclusive releases and live sessions.

Amazon Music comes in multiple versions: a free tier with ads, a tier included with Amazon Prime membership, and a premium subscription. Amazon Music offers tens of millions of songs and integrates with other Amazon services.

Podcast apps like Google Podcasts, Podcast Addict, and Pocket Casts work with Android Auto. These apps let you subscribe to podcast series and listen to episodes while driving. Google Podcasts was integrated into Google Play Music, which later became YouTube Music, so podcast functionality is now part of that ecosystem.

SiriusXM is a satellite radio service available on Android Auto. Unlike streaming services that require cellular data, SiriusXM uses satellite signals. A paid subscription is required, but it offers uninterrupted service even in areas without cellular coverage.

Practical takeaway: If you stream music, your preferred service likely works with Android Auto. Start with Spotify or YouTube Music if you don't currently use any service—both have free tiers. For podcast listening, explore Google Podcasts or your current podcast app to see if it supports Android Auto compatibility.

Messaging, Communication, and Hands-Free Calling Apps

Android Auto includes native support for phone calls through the system's built-in calling interface. When someone calls your phone, Android Auto displays the incoming call on your car's screen with large accept and decline buttons. You can answer through your car's speakers and use the car's microphone to speak, keeping your hands free and your attention on the road.

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Google Messages is the default messaging app for many Android phones. It supports SMS text messages and RCS (Rich Communication Services), which is an upgraded messaging standard. Through Android Auto, you can receive message notifications and have messages read aloud to you. You can also send replies using voice-to-text, which converts your spoken words into written messages.

WhatsApp works with Android Auto in limited capacity. You can receive message notifications and call incoming WhatsApp calls through Android Auto, but sending messages requires voice commands or voice-to-text input. WhatsApp is widely used globally and is free to use once you create an account.

Telegram is another messaging app that works with Android Auto. It offers similar functionality to WhatsApp with some additional privacy features. Telegram is free and doesn't require a phone number subscription to use.

Facebook Messenger is supported, allowing you to receive Messenger notifications and make calls through Android Auto. The app is free, though Facebook accounts are required.

Skype allows voice and video calling through internet data. While you cannot make video calls on Android Auto (since you're driving), you can make voice calls. Skype is free for Skype-to-Skype calls; calls to phone numbers require credits or a subscription.

Practical takeaway: Use voice commands to handle all messaging and calling while driving. Most Android Auto compatible apps read messages aloud and convert your voice to text, which is the safest method. Set up voice-to-text in your language before you need it so you're familiar with how it works.

Weather, Parking, and Utility Apps Worth Knowing About

Weather apps provide information about current conditions and forecasts for your location. Weather Underground is a popular option that combines personal weather stations with professional forecasts. It's free to use and shows hyperlocal weather data. AccuWeather is another widely-used option that emphasizes accuracy and provides minute-by-minute forecasts for your location.

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Google's built-in weather service provides basic weather information through Google Search and Google Assistant. Since Android Auto integrates with Google services, you can ask your car's voice assistant about weather conditions, and it will retrieve information from Google's weather data.

Parking apps help you find and manage parking in urban areas. SpotHero lets you reserve parking spaces in advance at parking lots and garages. You can