Android Auto Add Apps

Android Auto makes it easier to use apps like Google Maps or your own music while driving your car. We show you in a simple tutorial how to set up Android Auto, which cars are compatible with Android Auto and what to do in case of problems. Version:1.0 Languages:English Release:2014-06-25 License:Preview Platforms:Linux To see how easy it is to use Android Auto, watch this short video: Getting Started with Android Auto Table of Contents

  • Which cars and phones are compatible
  • Setting up Android Auto – instructions
  • Using Android Auto on your smartphone
  • Adding apps – How to do it
  • Android Auto does not work – solutions

Android Auto setup: Which vehicles and phones are compatible

For those who do not know if their vehicle is compatible with Android Auto, our page on the different Android versions lists the manufacturers. These car brands produce models that usually support Google’s system, as long as an infotainment system is installed. If you are not sure, ask your manufacturer or check the user manual. Some popular car brands in Germany include:

  • Ford
  • Audi
  • Volkswagen
  • Volvo
  • Opel
  • Smart
  • Renault
  • Mercedes-Benz

But even if you don’t have a vehicle equipped with the media system, you can still use the service directly via your smartphone (Android version 5.0 or higher). Alternatively, you can also buy a suitable receiver (e.g. Sony AX100). In all cases, however, you will definitely have to download Google’s in-house app to be able to set up Android Auto.

Setting up Android Auto – this is how it works

To use Google’s system, simply follow these steps:

  1. To set up your car, it is best to turn it off.
  2. Switch on Bluetooth on and connect to the infotainment system of your car. If you have problems with Bluetooth, we will help you elsewhere.
  3. Download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store and open it.
  4. Now you need to assign the necessary permissions by going through the setup wizard. To do this, tap on First steps and then Next. Accept the following Permission Requests. These are required to access your notifications and calls while driving.
  5. Allow notification Notification access on the next page by setting the slider on Android Auto to ON on.
  6. Connect your phone to the car’s infotainment system using a USB cable. Most screens have a USB port for this directly near the display or in the center console.
  7. Now you may have to agree to the user conditions on your car screen again.
  8. Now Android Auto is set up and you can use the basic version of the system.

If you do not always want to press the microphone icon to communicate, simply activate the “Ok Google” recognition in the settings. To do so, tap the Menu button > Settings > “Ok Google” recognition.

Using Android Auto via the smartphone

If your vehicle or infotainment system is not compatible with Android Auto, you can also use the app separately on the phone and attach it to a smartphone cradle. The basic functions can still be used while driving. If your radio has an AUX input, you can even play the sound through the car speakers with a suitable cable. If you also like to do sports, you should definitely take a look at our picture gallery of the most popular fitness apps:

Android Auto: Add App

If you want to add apps in Android Auto to expand the functions, you can do that via the app itself. Just follow these steps:

  1. In the top left corner of the app, tap the Menu button.
  2. Select Apps for Android Auto.
  3. An overview of all compatible apps will open up for you to browse and install.
  4. The app you can then call upby clicking on the headphone icon in the main view of Android Auto. Headphone icon in the lower right corner. Here you can also see all the compatible apps that are on your smartphone.
  5. To start, simply select one of the added apps.

Android Auto does not work: Help with problems

If there are connection problems in Android Auto, you should check some settings that could be the cause.

  • In some cars with a compatible infotainment system, you have to allow its use first. The service can often be activated in the system settings.
  • Basically, your smartphone should have at least Android 5.0 or higher.
  • Your USB cable might not be suitable for data transfers.
  • In case of connection problems, check in the settings if Use Bluetooth is activated.
  • If the system still does not connect, your car may have been rejected. Go to the Settings > Connected vehiclesto check this. There you will see Accepted and Rejected cars.

In another article, you will also learn how to use WhatsApp in Android Auto. Did the setup work smoothly for you or were there complications? In which car do you use Google’s navigation replacement? Let us know in the comments!

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