Android Auto
Android Auto is a driving-optimized phone-projection system that lets supported Android apps appear through a compatible vehicle's display, audio, microphone, and controls. The phone supplies the app platform; Android Auto is not the embedded operating system of the car.
How it works
The phone connects by USB or a supported wireless link. Approved app categories can provide functions such as navigation, audio, calls, messaging, weather, or charging-location information using interfaces designed for reduced driver interaction. Exact app, voice, control, display, and wireless support varies by phone, vehicle, country, and software version.
Google distinguishes Android Auto, which is powered by a connected phone, from Android Automotive OS, which is installed directly in the vehicle. Android Developers: Android for Cars overview A car can support both.
What to check
Check wired and wireless compatibility, supported phones, connection stability, audio behavior, steering-wheel controls, navigation guidance in the cluster or HUD, and multi-user switching. Phone heat, battery use, cable quality, permissions, and Wi-Fi or Bluetooth settings can affect operation.
Without a compatible connected phone, Android Auto is unavailable, but the vehicle's embedded radio, navigation, climate, and other functions can still operate according to the car's own design.
Learn more
See Smartphone integration for pairing and projection, and Infotainment software platforms and AI for the difference between phone projection and embedded platforms.