What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is the latest product from Google that’s designed as an alternative to CarPlay but for Android users. Similar to the Apple infotainment solution, Android Auto will use your Android smartphone to enable apps and extra features while driving.

Having just debuted last week, automakers have already announced support for this system giving the two major names in the world of smartphones a home in the car. You can expect production cars to debut with this system before the end of the year, but for those still wondering about Android Auto, we’ve got your fix right here.

The familiar user experience between your phone and car is an advantage. Android Auto displays your phone’s information on your vehicle touchscreen in a simplified form designed for safe use on the road while preserving a recognizably Android interface.

There are only four permanent shortcuts: music, navigation, phone and your vehicle information. There is also a central “home” screen that combines information from each of those areas. Double tap one of the shortcuts and the screen will show you a list of all the apps on your phone that you can use. For example, the music shortcut includes the Google Play Music app, Pandora, Rdio and Spotify. Each app has a uniform design, so it all acts exactly the same no matter which service you’re using.

Using a similar design language to the Google Now feature on modern Android devices, the screen uses “cards” to share information with you. Each card is a piece of information that the device thinks you’re going to need. As an example, a card might show you the distance and route to your next appointment. Give it a poke and it launches Google Maps with the destination pre-loaded.

Notifications including incoming text messages and navigation instructions pop up on the top edge of the screen like they would on your smartphone. To respond to a message, you must use Google’s voice-recognition software. Typing on the screen with your finger is off limits because it requires you to look away from the road. Android Auto also locks down your phone, so you can’t pick it up to circumvent the system. Apple CarPlay also has this feature to curb distracted driving.

Thanks to a coalition called the Open Android Alliance, many tech companies and auto industry leaders have committed to bringing the Android platform to cars. Android Auto seems to be the strongest ways to accomplish this task. In North America, 21 major automakers have already stated that their future cars will have Android Auto compatibility.

SEE ALSO: What is Apple CarPlay?

Additionally, a few automakers, like Hyundai and Volvo, have announced Android Auto support alongside Apple CarPlay, meaning if you own either an Android powered phone or an iPhone, you’ll have a richer infotainment experience than the manufacturer provided system.