Android Auto newbie needs help

[mwrmwr]

I recently installed Android Auto in my car (2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid) and phone (Samsung Galaxy S22). using the AAWireless-002 wireless adapter. Everything seems to be working fine. But I find Android Auto annoying and pretty much useless. What am I missing? Why do so many people like it?

 

[mustang7757]

Hi,

Android Auto's purpose is to allow Android users to access their phone's features while driving, while keeping their eyes on the road

 

[mwrmwr]

Should I see all the phone's icons on my car screen? I don't think I do, but I'll check later.

 

[mustang7757]

Only selected things

 

[mwrmwr]

Google?

 

[mustang7757]

Google?

I'm not sure Google I pretty much leave it default what's already there but if go to settings> connected device>AA
Choose customize launcher

 

[mwrmwr]

Thanks. I'll try that.

 

[mustang7757]

Welcome

 

[rjack22]

Where do you find the settings to customize Android Auto? The app doesn't appear on my phone. Do I do it on my car's screen?

 

[mustang7757]

Where do you find the settings to customize Android Auto? The app doesn't appear on my phone. Do I do it on my car's screen?

Hello.. go to settings>connected device>scroll down as it doesn't show all the menu pages and tap Android Auto

 

[spARTacus]

Or do an on phone settings search for "Android Auto"

 

[spARTacus]

...Why do so many people like it?

It's decent for "hands free" access to (essentially via the corresponding app from your phone) things like:
- navigation
- audio/music
- calendar
- messaging
- assistant

However, the experience does depend on the abilities of your vehicle's head unit and of your phone.

 

[Ltripreno]

I have similar question. I read all the responses previous in this thread.
As Spartacus said, it depends on your vehicles head unit and the phone.
And depends on what the user needs/wants.
Can you share more specifically what the value of Android Auto is and how you use it?
You can minimize your response by considering my thoughts...
I have a 2024 GMC Canyon and I am learning how to use the vehicle. I have a Samsung A53 phone.
- My truck has Google maps already, therefore I do not need any navigation from my phone. Or do I??
- My truck has Sirius/XM, so my music needs are covered. No need for music or podcast from my phone.
- My previous vehicle, 2018 Frod F250, read my text messages without Android Auot. So I assume the GMC will also??
- All other functions are on my phone when I need them. Why do I need to duplicate them in the car?
Sorry for the long message. At this point I don't see value of Android Auto FOR ME.
Thanks!

 

[spARTacus]

I use it mainly for (relatively) hands free easy use of maps/navigation, messages, music, and phone. If one's vehicle adequately comes with all of that without the need for Android Auto or Apple Carplay, then that's great and probably works well enough for you. However, my vehicle didn't come with any of those built-in (well, other than hands-free Bluetooth). So, for me Android Auto is great. And, for me personally I'd prefer to be in control of all of that as slaved to my phone, vs slaved to my vehicle manufacturer or one of their dealers for service updates/subscriptions.

 

[Ltripreno]

Thank you! I have disabled Android Auto and I will see how it goes.