While Apple is my personal ecosystem, behind the wheel, Android Auto is my favorite infotainment system. Yes, I think it’s better than Apple CarPlay, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement. The more I use Android Auto, the more I like it and the more I find its weaknesses..
Yes, being a system compatible with so many different models and brands, it is normal that there are some delays and lags that I have not seen in Apple Carplay, but I also miss it features that would take Android Auto to another level.
A better wireless Android Auto
I have already said that I use Android Auto with a cable, although on short trips around the city it seems comfortable to use the wireless way. Here not only are there many models that are not compatible and can not be done otherwise than to buy an adapter, it is that the experience can clearly be improved. I know as I explained in the intro it’s not just Google’s fault and the combination of software and hardware makes everything difficult.
Because it is relatively common that sometimes the phone is not recognized, there are freezes, failures and even temperature increases unexpected with this route. When you’re driving and you trust your route to Google Maps or Waze, the last thing you need is for it to freeze. Wireless should be a standard by now and should be more reliable.
If it’s parked, I want more Android Auto options
I understand that watching a YouTube video or binge-watching a Netflix series while traveling is irresponsible because it’s easy for the driver to get distracted, but Android Auto already knows when you’re moving and when the car is parked and it would be nice if it could handle the second scenario. there would be more usage options. In fact, this is already happening with Android Automotive.
I think, for example, when I am waiting for someone in the car (for example at the airport), in a camper, you are going camping and want to see something in the car or simply you have an electric car and are charging. There it would be nice to be able to entertain yourself with videos using this screen and not be on the mobile screen. Yes, I am talking about be able to watch YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video and similar. And why not, even Google Meet: if there is already compatibility with Zoom, you should do the same with your video calling application.
I want to warn of dangers on the road with the voice assistant
If you come across an object on the road and you use Waze, you can mark it by tapping the screen several times, which prevents you from taking your eyes off the road and driving. This, in addition to being dangerous, is punishable by a fine. And be careful because Waze at least allows you to do this: with Google Maps you have to use your mobile phone.
Traffic alerts are essential for a good experienceinforming you of any unexpected incident such as accidents, checks, radars… so it would be better if they were generally integrated into GPS navigators (it depends on each application), but what less than to include them in those of Google and that they can also be done by voice.
Look mom, no hands
For what Android Auto uses touch controls too much and this is a security issue and possible penalties. An example: when an alert appears, it stays on the screen until it disappears by itself after a certain (long) time or you remove it with a simple tap.
But it is what it is, both for the interface and for the great margin of improvement that Google Assistant has in Android Auto and that Gemini’s artificial intelligence does not finish arriving and covering everything. In this sense, a small improvement that does not require too much effort would be to tell the assistant something like “delete notification” and that’s it.
Cover | Montage with own photography and Android auto icons created by Freepik – Flaticon
In Xataka Android | Android Auto, detailed guide: what it is, how it works, how to connect your mobile and the best thing you can do
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