What can an Android car stereo do?

Android car stereos are aftermarket head units that run on the Android operating system. They allow drivers to access Android’s ecosystem of apps and services for navigation, entertainment, phone integration, voice control, and more through the car’s infotainment screen. Compared to traditional car stereos, Android units offer a more smartphone-like experience with a customizable touchscreen interface and seamless integration with Android smartphones (source). With advanced capabilities powered by Android, these head units aim to enhance the overall in-car experience for drivers and passengers.

Navigation

Most modern Android car stereos come with built-in GPS navigation and map apps, providing turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates. The navigation experience matches what you get from standalone GPS devices and modern smartphones. The map database is stored locally on the device so you don’t need an active data connection to navigate, though having mobile data or a connected hotspot allows for live traffic info.

Some of the main navigation app features include: voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, lane guidance, speed limit and speed camera warnings, POI search for finding gas stations, restaurants etc., route planning with multiple stops, 3D terrain maps, satellite view, and more. Top models from brands like Eonon and Atoto offer large, high-resolution touchscreens from 8 to 10 inches, making it easy to view the maps.

The built-in navigation of Android car stereos works fully offline, but having an internet connection allows real-time traffic avoidance routing and over-the-air map updates. Some units also support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, so you can choose to navigate with Google Maps or Waze instead of the built-in nav.

Entertainment

One of the best features of an Android car stereo is the entertainment options it provides. You’ll have easy access to all your music, videos, podcasts, and audio apps right on your car’s display.^[1] Android car stereos allow you to browse your full music library, create playlists, and access streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, and Google Play Music.^[2] Some units have built-in amplifiers and equalizers so you can customize the sound.

You can also watch videos and movies from apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu while parked. Android Auto has restrictions on watching video while driving for safety. Many Android head units have HDMI inputs or mobile screen mirroring as well so you can display content from your phone. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to safely stream audio from your smartphone.

Overall, an Android car stereo transforms your vehicle into an entertainment hub, giving you a rich selection of music, videos, podcasts and apps to enjoy on the road.

[1] https://www.android.com/auto/
[2] https://www.lifewire.com/whats-the-best-android-car-stereo-534537

Phone Integration

One of the key features of Android car stereos is the ability to integrate with your smartphone. This allows you to access many of your phone’s apps and functions directly through the stereo’s interface, keeping your eyes on the road.

With Android Auto integration, your stereo display will mirror select apps from your phone, including Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, and more. You can use voice commands to navigate, play music, and make calls hands-free. Your contacts, playlists, and map data will sync automatically between your phone and the stereo ¹.

Some Android head units also support mirroring your entire phone screen through apps like MirrorLink or Android Auto. This gives you full access to your smartphone even without official Android Auto support. Phone mirroring allows you to run any app from your phone directly on the stereo display.

Overall, connecting an Android phone to a compatible Android stereo gives you safer access to apps, maps, calls, messages, and music while driving. Everything is optimized for use on the road through voice commands and steering wheel controls.

Voice Control

One of the most useful features of an Android car stereo is voice control through Google Assistant. You can activate Google Assistant by saying “Hey Google” or pressing and holding the voice command button on your steering wheel (https://support.google.com/androidauto/answer/6348083?hl=en). This allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road while controlling various functions.

With Google Assistant, you can give voice commands to navigate or get directions to a destination, play music or radio stations, make phone calls, listen to incoming messages, and more (https://support.google.com/assistant/answer/9838286?hl=en). The Assistant uses natural language processing, so you can speak commands conversationally. Android Auto also supports voice typing to dictate text messages and other inputs hands-free.

Overall, voice control makes an Android car stereo much safer and more convenient to use while driving. It provides quick access to music, navigation, communications and more through simple voice commands. This hands-free experience is a major advantage over traditional car stereos.

Customization

One of the great features of Android car stereos is the ability to customize the interface, apps, wallpaper, and more to your liking. Many stereos today come with custom Android launchers like AGAMA Car Launcher, VIVID Car Launcher, Car Launcher Pro, and others that allow for deep customization options.

You can change the wallpaper, icon styles, widgets, and shortcuts on the home screen. Some launchers let you create customized user profiles for different drivers. You can install launcher apps from the Google Play Store to completely change the look and feel of the interface.

In addition, you can download car-specific apps for your stereo to add new functionality. Apps like AutoMate allow you to customize your car dashboard with gauges, indicators, and more. There are also apps to customize audio controls, lighting, climate controls, and other in-car features.

Some stereos also allow you to install Android Automotive OS or other open platforms that open up customization. Overall, the ability to customize the interface and apps is a major benefit of Android auto stereos.

(Video demonstration of Android Auto customization options: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aykq1j8u_U)

Apps

Android Auto allows you to easily and safely access your favorite apps right on your car’s display. The Android Auto app offers a simplified interface optimized for driving that integrates seamlessly with your Android smartphone. Just connect your phone to a compatible car or aftermarket stereo and Android Auto presents you with information and entertainment you need without the distraction.

The Android Auto app on the Google Play store gives you access to popular navigation, messaging, audio and voice apps. Some of the most popular Android Auto apps include:

Google Maps and Waze for navigation
Spotify and iHeartRadio for music

Audible for audiobooks
WhatsApp and Messages for messaging

Android Auto optimizes these apps for safe driving by simplifying and enlarging fonts and buttons. Voice commands allow you to keep your eyes on the road. With Android Auto, your favorite apps, music, messaging and navigation are always within easy reach.

Connectivity

Android car stereos offer a range of connectivity options to integrate with your smartphone and other devices:

Bluetooth – Most Android car stereos include Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make hands-free phone calls, stream music apps like Spotify, and more.

WiFi – Some high end models have WiFi capability, enabling the download of apps, system updates, maps, etc. without the need for a wired connection. WiFi hotspot functionality is also available in some models to create an internet connection for connected devices.
USB – Android head units usually offer USB ports to connect to Android smartphones for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. USB connectivity also provides the option to play music from flash drives, charge mobile devices, and expand storage with USB drives.

In addition to these standard options, some units provide HDMI input for video playback from mobile devices, support for satellite radio tuners, built-in navigation via SD card slots, and more. Overall the wide range of connectivity makes Android powered car stereos highly versatile.

Source: https://www.android.com/auto/

Security

Android head units offer various security features to help keep your data safe and prevent theft. Many units allow you to set a PIN code or password that must be entered when turning on the stereo. This prevents unauthorized access if someone attempts to remove the unit from the vehicle.

According to Reddit and LotusTalk users, head units from some Chinese manufacturers have had issues with malware that allowed hackers to access Google accounts [1]. However, many reputable brands now incorporate anti-virus software and other protections.

Additional security functionality may include GPS tracking, remote shutdown, backup cameras, and motion sensors to deter potential thieves. While no system is 100% foolproof, responsible owners can take appropriate precautions like using strong passcodes, avoiding suspicious apps, and enabling available security settings.

Conclusion

In summary, there are many compelling reasons to upgrade to an Android-based car stereo. These technologically advanced car stereos offer an array of features not found in traditional factory stereos, such as:

Built-in navigation with voice guided turn-by-turn directions, points of interest, and traffic avoidance
Entertainment options like onboard apps, video and audio streaming, and hands-free calling

Customizable home screens with app shortcuts and personalization
WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity for media and device syncing
Voice controls for safer, eyes-free interaction while driving

With their large touchscreens, fast performance, and seamless smartphone integration, Android car stereos provide a smarter, safer, and more enjoyable driving experience. Upgrading offers all the convenience and connectivity we’ve come to expect from our mobile devices, right on our car’s dashboard.