How to install Android Auto on head unit?

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is a system designed by Google to extend the functionality and ease of use of Android devices in vehicles. It aims to provide drivers with a safer, more seamless experience by mirroring apps and services from a compatible Android device onto the vehicle’s infotainment display.

The key features of Android Auto include:

• Google Maps integration for turn-by-turn navigation and live traffic updates.
• Google Assistant voice commands for hands-free help with directions, calls, messages, music and more.
• Ability to access select apps like Spotify, podcasts, audiobooks, and messaging apps through your car’s display.
• Customizable home screen with personal shortcuts and suggested actions based on time, location, habits.
• Voice-enabled search and controls for calls, messages, entertainment and smart home devices.
• Seamless experience between device and car display with Android Auto phone app.

Overall, Android Auto allows drivers to minimize distractions and focus on the road by providing intelligent assistance and media integration in a simple, intuitive interface (1).

Benefits of Android Auto

Android Auto provides several key benefits that enhance the driving experience.

First and foremost, Android Auto promotes safety by minimizing distractions. It uses voice commands and steering wheel controls so drivers can keep their eyes on the road. Key safety features include:

• Google Assistant for hands-free voice control
• Voice responding texts and calls
• Context-based suggestions and reminders that reduce phone checking

Android Auto also seamlessly integrates entertainment. It allows easy access to music, podcasts, audiobooks and more from apps on your phone. You can access playlists, albums, and stations just using your voice.

Additionally, Android Auto enables full integration with Google Maps for navigation. Drivers can get turn-by-turn directions, traffic information, and find points of interest. This is all displayed on the car’s built-in screen.

Overall, Android Auto makes it safer and easier to access the best features of your Android phone while driving (https://www.asurion.com/connect/tech-tips/what-is-android-auto-do-you-need-it-in-the-car-and-how-does-it-work/).

Requirements for Android Auto

There are a few key requirements in order to use Android Auto:

Compatible Head Unit

You’ll need an aftermarket car stereo or head unit that is compatible with Android Auto. Many newer vehicles come equipped with Android Auto built-in. You can also install an aftermarket head unit that supports Android Auto. Check with your car stereo manufacturer to confirm compatibility.

Android Smartphone

You’ll need an Android phone running Android 8.0 or higher. Older versions of Android do not support Android Auto. Your phone will also need an active data plan in order to connect to Android Auto features (Android Auto requirements).

Android Auto App

You’ll need to download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store. This pairs your phone to your car’s head unit. Make sure you have the latest version of the app. The app is compatible with Android 8.0 and higher (Get started with Android Auto).

Installing the Android Auto App

The Android Auto app needs to be installed on your Android smartphone in order to connect with your vehicle’s infotainment system. The app can be easily downloaded for free from the Google Play store.

To install Android Auto (1):

1. Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
2. Search for “Android Auto.”
3. Tap “Install” to download and install the app.

Once installed, Android Auto will need certain permissions enabled to function properly including access to notifications, microphone, contacts, location, and storage. Grant the requested permissions when prompted during setup.

Connecting Phone to Head Unit

To connect your Android phone to your car’s head unit to enable Android Auto, you have two main options – using a USB cable or via Bluetooth pairing. Here are the steps for both connection methods:

USB Cable Connection

Connecting via USB cable is the most common and reliable way to connect your Android phone to your head unit. Follow these steps:

1. Plug your phone directly into the USB port on your car’s head unit using the USB cable that came with your phone. This is usually located in the center console or glovebox.
2. Make sure you are using a high-quality USB cable. Avoid third party low-quality cables as they may cause connection issues.
3. On the head unit, select Android Auto from the menu options. This enables the Android Auto mode on the head unit.
4. Your phone may prompt you to “Allow access” to enable data transfer. Select “Allow”.
5. After allowing access, Android Auto should launch on your head unit’s display.

Once connected via USB, Android Auto will automatically launch whenever you plug your phone into the head unit.

Bluetooth Pairing

You can also connect wirelessly to your head unit via Bluetooth:

1. Go to Bluetooth settings on your Android phone and ensure Bluetooth is enabled.
2. On your car’s head unit, go to Bluetooth settings and select “Add new device.”
3. On your phone, select your car’s head unit from the list of available devices.
4. Confirm pairing on both devices.
5. In your phone’s Bluetooth settings, ensure that calls and media audio are set to use the car system.
6. On the head unit, launch Android Auto from the menu.

After pairing via Bluetooth the first time, your phone and head unit will automatically connect whenever in range. Keep in mind that a wired USB connection is generally faster and more reliable.

Enabling Android Auto

Android Auto needs to be enabled both on your head unit and on your compatible Android phone in order to work properly. Here are the steps to enable Android Auto:

On your head unit:

• Go to Settings and look for an option to enable Android Auto. This may be under Connectivity, Apps, or some other settings menu depending on your head unit.
• Make sure Android Auto is toggled on. You may need to agree to any permission popups.
• Some head units require you to enable USB Control or USB debugging mode. Enable any relevant options.

On your Android phone:

• Open the Android Auto app. If you don’t see an app, Android Auto is built-in and can be enabled through Settings.
• In the Android Auto app, turn on Android Auto.
• In Settings, go to Connected Cars and enable the Allow Wireless Android Auto option.
• You may also need to enable USB debugging mode in Developer Options.

Once enabled on both devices, Android Auto will automatically launch when you connect your phone. Make sure you are using a compatible USB cable to connect your phone to your head unit.

Using Key Features

Android Auto comes with several key features that make driving easier and safer. Three of the most useful features are Google Maps navigation, media playback, and voice commands.

Google Maps integration provides turn-by-turn navigation and real-time traffic updates directly on your car’s display (Android Auto). The large maps make navigation easy to see at a glance without having to look down at your phone. You can enter destinations by voice or by tapping the screen.

For music and podcasts, Android Auto lets you access your favorite apps for seamless media playback as you drive. You can use voice commands to play specific songs, playlists, podcasts, or audiobooks. Media controls are displayed on your screen so you can easily pause, skip tracks, or adjust the volume (New features for Android Auto).

Hands-free voice commands are one of the best features of Android Auto. Just say “Okay Google” or press the microphone button to get directions, send messages, make calls, play media, and more. Voice actions help you keep your eyes on the road.

Customizing Android Auto Settings

Android Auto allows you to customize various settings to personalize your experience. Here are some of the key settings you can adjust:

Display Preferences

Under Display in the Android Auto app settings, you can choose light or dark theme and adjust text size. Dark theme is recommended for night driving to reduce glare. You can also enable auto-launch so Android Auto starts when you connect your phone.

Notification Options

To minimize distractions, you can set which app notifications come through while Android Auto is active under Notifications in Settings. You can turn off all notifications or only allow priority notifications from select apps.

Default Apps

Under Default apps in the settings, you can choose your preferred apps for navigation, phone calling, messaging, and music playback while using Android Auto. This allows you to customize your experience.

Refer to this guide for additional Android Auto customization tips.

Troubleshooting Issues

Android Auto can sometimes encounter issues that prevent it from working properly. Here are some common troubleshooting solutions for problems with Android Auto:

Connection Problems

If Android Auto won’t connect to your car’s infotainment system, first check that your phone and car are compatible according to the official Android Auto website. Make sure your USB cable is high quality and can transfer data – some cheaper cables may only provide power. Try connecting your phone to a different USB port on your car. You may also need to restart the car infotainment system and reconnect the Android Auto app.

App Crashes

If the Android Auto app crashes frequently, try updating to the latest version of Android Auto from the Play Store. Make sure your phone’s operating system is also updated to the newest version available. Check for app conflicts by trying to run Android Auto in safe mode on your phone. You can also try deleting and reinstalling the Android Auto app to resolve any corrupt files.

Errors

Pay attention to any error messages in Android Auto and look up solutions online or try the troubleshooting steps on the Android Auto support page. Restarting your phone and car infotainment system can help clear out errors. Check that Android Auto is enabled in your car’s settings. As a last resort, resetting your phone to factory default settings can eliminate software issues causing errors.

Tips for Using Android Auto

Here are some tips for getting the most out of Android Auto:

Useful voice commands: Android Auto has robust voice command capabilities through Google Assistant. Say “Hey Google” to activate it, then try asking for directions, playing music, calling contacts, and more. You can customize the activation phrase in settings.

Efficient navigation: Set your preferred maps app between Google Maps and Waze, and configure calendar appointments to automatically populate as destinations in your navigation app (Source). Swipe left or right on the map for quick zooming.

Handling notifications: By default, Android Auto will read out all notifications, which can be distracting while driving. Go to Settings > Notifications to disable notifications or enable Do Not Disturb mode while connected to your car’s head unit.