Can you watch Amazon Prime on Android Auto?
What is Android Auto?
Android Auto is Google’s platform for connecting Android phones to car infotainment systems (https://www.android.com/auto/). It displays a simplified interface with Google Maps, media playback, phone calls, and select apps on the car’s built-in display.
Android Auto allows drivers to access core phone functions and apps without fiddling with the phone itself. By connecting the Android phone to the car’s infotainment system, Android Auto projects a driving-optimized interface onto the car’s display (https://support.google.com/androidauto/answer/6348019?hl=en). This provides larger controls and fonts for easier visibility while driving.
What is Amazon Prime Video?
Amazon Prime Video is a video streaming service that is included with an Amazon Prime subscription. It offers a library of original content as well as licensed movies and TV shows to watch on demand. Some of the popular original content includes shows like The Boys, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Jack Ryan.
The video service launched in 2006 as Amazon Unbox, but was later rebranded as Amazon Instant Video in 2008 and Prime Video in 2016. It is available in over 200 countries and territories. Prime Video offers thousands of movies and TV episodes, including exclusives and award-winning Amazon Originals all available to watch on practically any device.
Prime Video is available as part of the Amazon Prime membership, which costs $14.99 per month or $139 annually for an individual. Prime members get access to free two-day shipping, Prime Music, Prime Gaming, Prime Reading, unlimited photo storage and more along with the video streaming service. The standalone Prime Video membership costs $8.99 per month.
Can You Access Amazon Prime Video on Android Auto?
The Amazon Prime Video app is currently not available or compatible with Android Auto. Android Auto only supports certain approved apps for safety and simplicity reasons while driving (Source: https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/13/23872249/google-built-in-android-auto-webex-zoom-prime-video).
Since watching video requires visual attention that could distract drivers, the Android Auto platform specifically does not allow video streaming apps. The apps it includes are optimized for audio, voice commands, and minimal glances at the screen. So unfortunately, there is no way to directly access the Amazon Prime Video library from Android Auto currently.
Workarounds to Watch Amazon Prime Video in the Car
While you can’t natively watch Amazon Prime Video on Android Auto, there are some workarounds to stream Prime Video in the car if you have an Android phone.
One option is to cast or mirror your Android phone’s display directly to your car’s infotainment system display. Many newer cars have Miracast or wireless connectivity support to allow this. You would start playing a video on your phone through the Prime Video app, then enable wireless display casting to send the video to your car’s screen. This mirrors anything on your phone. Some cars may require an HDMI or MHL cable to connect and cast your phone’s display.
Alternatively, you can turn your Android phone into a WiFi hotspot to provide internet access to your car’s infotainment system. Connect your car to your phone’s WiFi network, then you can play Prime Video directly on your phone while using your car’s display to view the video. This allows you to access the full Prime Video app and its content library while driving. Just be sure to place your phone safely to view the video.
These workarounds allow you to access Amazon’s streaming video library on the go. However, directly watching video while driving can be dangerous, so use caution.
Pros of Watching Amazon Prime Video in the Car
One of the main benefits of being able to access Amazon Prime Video in the car is the ability to entertain passengers, especially on long road trips. The larger displays and upgraded sound systems in many newer vehicles can provide a far better viewing experience than trying to crowd around a tiny smartphone screen. According to one source, “Having Amazon Prime Video available in vehicles allows passengers, especially those on long journeys, to access a wide library of movies, TV shows, and more for many hours of high-quality entertainment on the go.”[1]
Making use of the larger screens and audio capabilities of modern car entertainment systems allows for a more immersive, theater-like experience versus trying to watch shows and movies on a small mobile device. This can help make long drives feel quicker and more enjoyable for both kids and adults.
Cons of Watching Video While Driving
The most significant downside to watching videos while driving is that it poses a major safety hazard and distraction for the driver. When focusing on a video, the driver’s eyes are not fully on the road, which reduces reaction time and awareness. This distraction greatly increases the risks of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
In fact, distracted driving contributes to thousands of deaths in the United States each year. Viewing videos takes the driver’s attention away from critical tasks like scanning the road, checking mirrors, responding to hazards, and operating the vehicle properly.
Most locations prohibit watching videos while driving a motor vehicle. Laws vary by state, but generally it is illegal to view videos on phones, tablets, or built-in displays while behind the wheel. Violators may face stiff penalties like fines, license suspensions, or even jail time if an accident occurs.
Ultimately, safety experts warn strongly against viewing any visual media while operating a vehicle. Maintaining focus on the road is essential to avoid crashes and save lives.
Alternative Apps for Streaming Video on Android Auto
While Amazon Prime Video is not natively supported on Android Auto, there are some alternative video streaming apps that can be used to watch videos in your car through Android Auto:
YouTube
One popular option is to stream YouTube videos using an app like CarStream. This allows you to search for and play YouTube videos directly on your Android Auto display. It doesn’t require root access and provides a simple way to watch YouTube content conveniently in your car.
Netflix
Netflix is not natively supported on Android Auto either. However, using the Android Auto Apps Downloader app, you can install a modded version of the Netflix app to watch shows and movies. This requires some additional setup but allows Netflix streaming on Android Auto.
Plex
Plex is a media server app that lets you stream your personal video files and libraries. The Plex app is available on Android Auto which makes it easy to watch your own downloaded video content on the go.
VLC
VLC is a popular open source video player that can play just about any video format. The VLC app on Android Auto allows you to play local video files stored on your phone through the Android Auto interface in your car.
Trying out these streaming video apps provides alternative options to watch video content conveniently on your Android Auto system.
Tips for Using Android Auto
Here are some useful tips for getting the most out of Android Auto:
Keep your phone charged and connect it with a high-quality USB cable. Android Auto relies on your phone’s data and battery, so make sure it’s sufficiently powered. Use the original cable that came with your phone or invest in a sturdy third-party cable to avoid connectivity issues.
Adjust the placement of your phone mount for optimal viewing. Position it close enough and angled towards you so that you can easily see and reach the screen. Place it low on the dash rather than high up, to keep your eyes closer to road level.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with Android Auto’s interface and available features before driving. Knowing the basic menus and voice commands will help you use it more safely while on the road. The Google Assistant can be quite helpful here.
Start slow and limit distracting activities as you get used to using Android Auto. Don’t try to navigate complex menus or streams videos until you’ve mastered the basics through muscle memory.
The Future of Streaming Video on Android Auto
Android Auto may expand approved apps over time to allow more streaming video options directly through the system. Currently, apps must be explicitly approved by Google to work with Android Auto, but these policies could evolve in the future.
Aftermarket stereos from companies like Pioneer, Kenwood, and JVC already offer more flexibility for running Android apps, including streaming video. These systems run a modified version of Android Automotive allowing more customization and app support.
There is also the possibility that Prime Video could eventually be integrated directly into Android Auto. Amazon and Google have worked together before for app integration, like with YouTube on Fire TV devices. However, currently Prime Video is not available. With Android Auto’s focus on minimizing driver distraction, any approval would likely require a limited, audio-focused interface.
Overall, while options are limited today, the future landscape for streaming video on Android Auto has potential for expansion. But any changes will need to balance consumer demand with driver safety.
Summary
Currently, there is no direct way to watch Amazon Prime Video through Android Auto. Since Android Auto is focused on reducing distractions for drivers, applications like Prime Video are not supported. However, some workarounds exist to view Prime Video content in your car, such as screen mirroring your phone or using the web browser version of Prime Video.
While it may be tempting to watch movies and shows in the car, it’s important to keep safety as your top priority. Video streaming can be very distracting and dangerous when driving. It’s generally recommended to avoid video entirely and stick to only essential apps in Android Auto like navigation, messaging, and music.
Hopefully in the future, Android Auto will continue to evolve its entertainment options while prioritizing driver safety. For now, it’s best to wait until you’re parked if you want to enjoy full video streaming through Prime Video or other apps.