Android Auto - Google Maps, Media & Messaging

Android Auto is a digital driving companion integrated with the Google Assistant that allows you to entertain yourself or communicate right on the road without distracting. The app is designed to keep things as simple as possible – huge buttons, intuitive controls, and various voice actions are there to make sure your next road trip will be safe and fun.

Interface 9/10

The interface of Android Auto was designed to be especially simple and cause as little distraction as possible. All of the buttons are huge, so you can tap them quickly while driving, and just about every feature can be accessed and used with short voice commands. You don't even need to get your eyes off the road – just say "Ok Google" and ask the service to show you the way to someplace, set a reminder, or call somebody. This makes the app feel useful right from the start.

Features 8/10

Basically, Android Auto is a more convenient and driving-friendly way of accessing your Assistant, so the app's key feature is the ability to control your mobile device with your voice. You can use the app to get traffic alerts, listen to information about possible hazards, check your calendar, or make it play your favorite music. There are even options to send text messages via supported messengers or start video calls right on the road. Android Auto already supports hundreds of the most popular apps you can freely access, and that list is steadily growing.

Usability 7/10

The amount of supported apps is impressive, and controlling them is easier than ever before – there is no need to touch your phone at all. However, you need some time to learn how to use your voice, and we've encountered a couple of annoying bugs. For example, Android Auto stops to process calls or understand your commands from time to time, for no reason at all. So you have to turn the phone off and then on to eliminate this issue. And we don't need to tell you how uncomfortable that can be on the road.

Compatibility 8/10

Android Auto supports hundreds of different apps, including many popular messengers, video chats, and streaming services, and that number is growing. The app works perfectly well on devices that are running Android 5.0 or higher, and it also supports many car models – that's right, you can plug your phone in, connecting your device to a supported car. All in all, this compatibility is great – just be sure to check if your car supports this feature.

Verdict

Android Auto allows you to control your phone while driving, allowing you to work, communicate, or listen to your music library effortlessly. The voice commands support to make sure you are safe and focused on the road, even while texting, calling, or managing your meetings. That's why we recommend it to every car owner out there.