Android Auto on phone rolls out – no need to plug in

Six months after announcing that Android Auto will work completely on the phone, Google has finally rolled out the new feature in the v2.0 update starting today. This means that you no longer have to have a car with a compatible infotainment system – or shell out for a head unit upgrade – to use it.

As with Android Auto in the car, the phone version provides a simplified interface with bigger fonts and larger buttons, better suited for use on the road. This affords drivers easier access to Google Maps and music streaming services like Spotify, as well as make calls or send messages, all using Google’s voice activation. Android Auto also cuts down on notifications, minimising distraction while driving.

The update also enables the app to start up automatically when the phone is paired via Bluetooth, while a feature enabling users to access voice activation by simply saying “Ok Google” – negating the need to press the dedicated voice control button – will also be introduced in the coming weeks. Unfortunately, Waze support (also announced at the Google I/O conference in May) is still not included as yet.

Of course, Android Auto is still not officially available in Malaysia – for now, those wanting to use the app will need to side-load it via an external source (i.e. not from the Google Play Store).

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Jonathan Lee

After trying to pursue a career in product design, Jonathan Lee decided to make the sideways jump into the world of car journalism instead. He therefore appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a car, but for him, the driving experience is still second to none.

 

Comments

  • Eternalgl0ry on Nov 08, 2016 at 10:53 am

    But the problem is not the application. The car head unit must support wireless android auto to make this work. New civic can do this?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
    • Jonathan Lee (Member) on Nov 08, 2016 at 11:16 am

      This update enables Android Auto to function directly on the phone, meaning you’ll be able to use it on any car, even one without Bluetooth connectivity.

      As for wireless Android Auto, that’s not available just yet – only Apple CarPlay can connect wirelessly, and even then only on the new G30 BMW 5 Series for now.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 0
    • Civic only supports CarPlay.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
      • Jonathan Lee (Member) on Nov 08, 2016 at 11:54 am

        It supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 0
  • there he is on Nov 08, 2016 at 11:48 am

    stupid update. i might as well just use waze

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 9
  • Malik on Nov 08, 2016 at 12:22 pm

    You can use android auto in malaysia by downloading it through external source but you would have to change your location to the countries it supports …so maps is off tthe table( ccorrect me if I am wrong )…. I just want to use the maps on my civic head unit ….for calls Bluetooth is enough ….. for music use Bluetooth and change your audio source to Bluetooth and you can run any app on your phone for audio … or you can use the USB…..or the good old radio …
    So google please give us android auto in malaysia

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
    • u can use android auto with our maps no problem. had it for months now. all works fine.

      of course via external source which many are credible. all can be done by simple googling and common sense.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
    • ramnkc on Nov 08, 2016 at 3:28 pm

      Nope, just google and download the APK, install it will do. Been using it for months…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
    • Malik on Nov 08, 2016 at 6:48 pm

      Thanks guys …. for clarifying …i was scared to download the apk because I thought no maps … will start using android auto from now on.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Waiting for Android Auto on Nov 08, 2016 at 1:08 pm

    What is holding up google from releasing Andriod Auto in Malaysia? Dearth of suitable cars? But then, automakers won’t release head units with Android Auto too! A catch 22 situation.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • Mohd Saiful Bin Puteh on Nov 09, 2016 at 1:20 am

    Saya ingin tahu apa masalah yang telah ditetapkan untuk mendapatkan maklumat lanjut dan teruskan semula mendapatkan profil saya jika saya tak faham kenapa perlu saya lakukan apa yang diinginkan..Tolong jangan sampai saya rasa susah untuk mendapatkan semula profil saya semula jika saya tak faham kenapa apa yang harus dilakukan untuk kamu..Saya minta untuk menarik diri dari apa yang diinginkan oleh pihak yang diilhamkan oleh mereka untuk saya..Saya tak dapat nak buat kerana saya masih buta dan tak faham dengan konsep ini..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 10
 

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