One of the big reasons I prefer Android Auto over Apple CarPlay is the number of apps available for Google’s infotainment system. They are basically classified into three categories: browsing, messaging, music and audio. Although in general the catalog is sufficient for the average user, it can be Like me, you want more apps on Android Auto.
But Android Auto isn’t as open a system as regular Android, since Google tightly controls which apps can be displayed in its car-optimized version, limiting itself to those that are certified. However, it is always possible to achieve more: in my experience, the simplest and most reliable alternative without the need for root is Android Auto Apps Downloader, an open source project that hides some real gems.
AAAD, the easiest way to extend Android Auto utilities
Having and using Android Auto Apps Downloader is a little different how to install any application for Android Auto, which basically comes down to downloading the application from the Google Play Store and if it is compatible with the version for cars, the next time you get in the car, the app icon in Question will appear and you can use it.
In this case, you will need to install Android Auto Apps Downloader in the form of APK and allow this platform to install applications on the device (a permission from the phone settings). This can be done without much mystery from GitHub, where you can also find information about how it works, its limitations and its support.
Installation process from GitHub
Android Auto Apps Downloader is a kind of small repository of applications developed for Android Auto not certified by Google. And to have it on the car screen you don’t have to do anything special: tap on the list, confirm the download and shortly after you will see it in the menu like any other (although I haven’t had this adaptation to Android Auto, it may not always be as good as a compatible app from the Play Store).
For your information : download and use Android Auto Apps Downloader is free, but you are limited to installing only one app per month. If you want more, you have to checkout and pay 3.5 dollars to get the complete launcher.
With this Android Auto app downloader I have mixed feelings: I discovered the initiative almost a few years ago, I found it great for its operation and its simplicity and since then I have used it with good results, but it is stagnating.
So not only is the appearance somewhat outdated (the good thing is that it has no impact on the experience), but the project is started with 10 apps available and although the responsible development team promised more, the same remain: Carstream, which allows for example watching YouTube videos on the car screen, Fermata Auto, Scree2Auto, AA Mirror, AA Stream, AA Mirror Plus , Performance Monitor, AA Passenger and widgets for Android Auto.
And it’s a shame: I like to find alternatives to extend the usefulness of Android Auto without having to search too much or resort to root, but if the catalog doesn’t grow and adapt, the future looks dark. However, at the moment it is still operational and if you want to try new apps for Android Auto or find some that unlock functions that those certified by Google do not, this is the best option.
Cover | Montage with Mockuphone, AAAD and own photo of Eva Rodríguez de Luis
In Xataka Android | How to install apps on Android Auto
