Connect Your Phone to Your Car with Android Auto

We all know that cell phones can be a huge distraction while driving. But we’ve become reliant on them for GPS directions, phone calls, and as a way to play music. Dash-mounts have helped to minimize cell phone distraction by placing the phone in your line of vision so that you can easily glance at directions or answer a call. Google’s Android Auto app furthers this, by altering your phone’s display so that your favorite apps are more car-friendly — as in, easier to access with push of a button without taking your eyes off of the road.

Google’s Android Auto app is free to download from the Play store. There are two options for the app, depending on your car model. If you have a newer car model, you can connect your phone to your digital display for easier viewing and access. For older car models, there’s now the option to receive all of the benefits of the app without requiring a car that supports Android Auto. The app works with phones running 5.0+ (also known as Lollipop, Marshmallow, and Nougat) and newer car models with digital displays that can support the app. The app will, of course, still use your phone’s data.

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For Cars That Support Android Auto
The app was originally created to work with newer car models. It’s meant to offer an easier way to connect your phone to your car, without the hassle of a phone mount or the distraction of reaching elsewhere to check your phone. Simply download the app, and connect your phone to your car through a USB cable. Follow the prompts on the screen to set it up and then you’re ready to go. This app will alter your car’s display by presenting your favorite phone apps in an easy-to-use, minimal design. By accessing your phone through the digital display, you’ll be able to quickly glance at your route on Google Maps, or use Google Now to tell your phone to make a call, send a text message, or change the music.

For Cars That Don’t Support Android Auto
A recent update to the app allows the Android Auto interface to work on your phone without connecting it to your car. Download the app and mount your phone to your car to use it like a built-in display screen. You’ll still receive many of the same benefits, such as an easier-to-use interface and a focus on voice commands to keep distractions to a minimum.