How to Add Apps to Android Auto: A Step-by-Step Guide

Android Auto is a fantastic way to integrate your smartphone’s functionality into your car’s infotainment system, making navigation, music, and communication safer and more convenient while driving. However, you might be wondering how to get your favorite apps to show up on that car dashboard screen. While Android Auto doesn’t directly allow you to add *any* app, it does support a selection of apps optimized for in-car use. This article will guide you through the process of understanding which apps are compatible and how to ensure they appear on your Android Auto display.

Understanding Android Auto App Compatibility

It’s important to know that not all apps on your Android phone will appear on Android Auto. Google curates the apps that are compatible with the platform, prioritizing apps that are safe and useful for drivers. These typically fall into categories such as:

• Navigation: Google Maps, Waze, etc.
• Music & Audio: Spotify, YouTube Music, Pandora, podcasts apps, etc.
• Communication: WhatsApp, Telegram, Google Messages, etc. (for sending and receiving messages via voice).

You can’t, for example, add games or video streaming apps to Android Auto, as these are considered distracting while driving. So, the “adding apps” process is less about manually installing new things directly to Auto and more about ensuring that compatible apps are installed on your phone and set up correctly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Apps on Android Auto

Here’s how to get your supported apps onto your Android Auto display:

1. Ensure App Compatibility:
   The first step is to make sure the apps you want are compatible with Android Auto. You can do this by checking the Google Play Store listing for the app and look for the “Android Auto” badge or mention in the description. You can also check Google’s official Android Auto website or Google Play for a curated list of Auto-compatible apps.

2. Install or Update the App on Your Phone:
   If you don’t already have the app installed on your Android device, install it from the Google Play Store. If you have it installed, make sure it’s updated to the latest version. Outdated apps might not be fully compatible with Android Auto.

3. Enable Android Auto on Your Phone:
   Android Auto is typically built into your Android phone. However, it might be necessary to enable it if you haven’t done so. Go to your phone’s Settings and search for “Android Auto.” You’ll often find it in the Connected Devices or Apps sections. Open Android Auto, you will see a list of compatible apps that have been installed on your phone.

4. Grant Necessary Permissions (if required):
   Some apps might need specific permissions for Android Auto integration. Check the individual app’s settings and allow necessary permissions for location, microphone, notifications, etc.

5. Connect Your Phone to Your Car:
   Connect your Android phone to your car’s infotainment system using a USB cable or a wireless connection, if supported by your car. When connected, Android Auto will launch automatically on your car’s screen.

6. Use the App on Android Auto:
   Once connected, you should see a simple interface on your car’s screen, typically a home screen with app icons for compatible apps. Tap on the app you want to use. You may have to setup the app (e.g. log in to Spotify) inside the Android Auto interface the first time.

Troubleshooting: If an App Isn’t Appearing

If an app that you expect to see isn’t showing up on Android Auto, try these troubleshooting steps:

• Check Compatibility: Double-check if the app is actually Android Auto compatible by using the steps listed above.
• Update the App: Make sure the app is updated to the latest version.
• Clear App Cache/Data: In your phone’s settings, find the Android Auto app under the app list. Clear its cache and data, then try connecting again.
• Restart Phone/Car: Sometimes a simple restart of both your phone and your car’s infotainment system can resolve temporary issues.
• Check Permissions: Ensure Android Auto and the specific app in question have all necessary permissions.
• USB Cable: If using a USB connection, try using a different cable.
• Check for Android Auto Updates: In rare cases there may be a compatibility issue with Android Auto itself. Check if an update is available through the Google Play store.

Conclusion

Getting apps on Android Auto is straightforward once you understand how the platform works. It’s not about adding new apps directly to Auto, but about ensuring compatible apps are on your phone and properly set up. Following these steps will help you access your favorite navigation, music, and communication apps safely and conveniently while driving.