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Everything you need to know about Android Auto.

Published Date: 29th Jan 2016

Android Auto is Google’s answer to Apple Car Play. Designed to make everything simpler when driving, it will display the same familiar interface that you’re used to, on the touch screen in the car.

All that is needed to sync with your Android (5.0 lollipop or higher) device is a USB cable and you’re good to go. It will display the Android operating system on the car's display. It uses a card system to display different information like a next turn from Google Maps on one card and maybe a calendar reminder or the weather on another card.

The new system can be used through touch, in car control buttons and also voice control. The voice control will make everything available without taking your hands off the steering wheel or eyes off the road for a safer journey. With the best in class speech technology it will make it easier to recognise your voice rather than previous attempts by manufacturers to use voice control that can be tedious and frustrating to use.

 

Alongside handsfree calling and the reading out of new messages, Google maps can be used as a free voice guided navigation with live traffic information and lane guidance. Included with Android Auto is a free 90 day trial for Google Play Music which allows you to stream endless music on the go with on demand access to 30 million songs. With Skype, Spotify, Pandora, and Tune In all supporting the Android Auto platform you will be spoilt for music and radio choice.

Google’s Android Auto is being rolled out by many manufacturers, so if you’re in the market for a new car, be sure to check the specifications to see if it is available as standard or an option. Listed below are supporting manufacturers but always check with the dealer as specification can change depending on the model year:

Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Audi, Bentley, Citroen, DS, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, Kia, Maserati, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, SEAT, Skoda, SsangYong, Subaru, Suzuki, Vauxhall, VW and Volvo.