android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
Apple CarPlay

These days, you’ll find that the infotainment systems in some cars support Android Auto (AA) and/or Apple CarPlay (AC). In the past few months, we’ve seen mass-market models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda HR-V be updated to include the feature, while several premium cars already come with it.

For those who are already using the feature on either platform, you’ll probably have some good things to say about it, so carry on. However, if you’ve never had the chance to try it out and are curious about what the fuss is all about, and if it’s even important, we’re here to try and bring you up to speed.

What is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?

In essence, AA/AC takes a few existing features from your smartphone and mirrors them on a car’s head unit or infotainment system. This is very different from another form of mirroring like Miracast, which merely duplicates whatever is shown on your phone’s screen.

With AA/AC, you get a specific interface with a standard layout and quick access to things like your phonebook, Google Maps, Apple Music, Spotify, etc. Unlike Miracast, supported apps are readily available on your car’s display without having to fiddle with your phone to find what you want.

As an additional note, some systems do come with WebLink, which also “projects” compatible apps onto the car’s display, although the experience isn’t as cohesive as AA/AC and could differ depending on the manufacturer.

android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
Android Auto

If you have an iPhone 5 running iOS 7.1, or anything newer, Apple CarPlay already comes installed by default. As for Android Auto, it is baked into the Android 10 and 11, so any device running those operating systems will have the functionality.

For phones that are running on older operating systems before Android 10, you’ll have to install Android Auto separately, which unfortunately, can’t be done though Google Play Store for our market. However, you can download the relevant Android application package (APK) and install Android Auto manually, but make sure you get the file from trusted sources.

How do I get either to work?

For a majority of systems, AA/AC interfaces with your car via a wired USB connection and will typically launch automatically or give you a prompt when you plug your phone in. You can also establish a wireless connection, although you’ll first need to check if your system supports it.

Should your car not come with an infotainment system that supports AA/AC, you’ll have to check with the manufacturer to see if there’s a retrofit solution available, like what Bermaz Auto offers for selected Mazda cars.

Alternatively, there are also aftermarket head units with AA/AC worth considering, although you’ll want to make sure that getting one fitted will not interfere with your car’s warranty, if it still applicable.

These head units typically take up a double-DIN slot to accommodate their touchscreen displays, and costlier examples even support wireless connectivity. You’ll also want to make sure you find a shop that can properly install it, preferably without having to splice your car’s existing wiring. Do take note that some head units are merely Android-based, meaning they run the operating system on-device, and might not support AA.

If going absolutely wireless is something you want, but you don’t want to spend more on a head unit that supports it, or if you current infotainment system only supports a wired connection, there are also dedicated USB dongles like Carlinkit that can provide this functionality; make sure that it is compatible beforehand.

I’m connected. What are the benefits I’m going to enjoy?

With AA/AC, you can use many of the features that you are already familiar with on your phone. For instance, you can get turn-by-turn navigation on Google Maps, play music from Spotify, listen to your favourite podcast, or even ring someone up. Both also have their respective digital assistants like iOS’ Siri and the Google Assistant, so you can say trigger phrases (Hey, Siri or OK, Google) and issue commands using your voice.

Since all the data is supplied from your phone, you will benefit from real-time information like the current traffic situation. Thanks to the updates that your phone gets from time to time for apps, AA/AC and the operating system, your interior is kept fresh with the latest features.

Considering most car screen user interfaces won’t age well (just look at the cars from five years ago), having a self-updating UI through AA/AC goes a long way in keeping your in-car entertainment from feeling old and outdated.

Apple CarPlay main dashboard (left), Android Auto (right)

This is certainly a benefit compared to some infotainment systems that need to be updated at the service centre, which could also require new hardware to be added in like an LTE module for further functionality. Of course, certain cars already have built-in systems that are linked to the internet, providing you with a range connected services and over-the-air updates (OTA).

That’s good if you have the time to set it all up, but since a lot of your life is already in your smartphone, having what you’ve already set up presented on-screen after a simple connection does seem a lot more convenient. Truthfully, how many of you have actually used your car’s infotainment system to navigate to a restaurant? It’s mostly Google Maps or Waze, right?

It should also be noted that the more advanced and connected systems are typically found in premium vehicles that cost more. With AA/AC, as long as you have a compatible head unit or infotainment system, you already have access to the available features, with the phone doing all the heavy lifting.

Why not just fit my phone on a mount and use it as-is?

Fair point, but using your phone with a mount still limits you in terms of ease of accessibility. It’s certainly more of a hassle trying to access certain functions using smaller on-screen buttons on a phone’s screen that is comparatively smaller than your car’s display.

By comparison, with AA/AC, features can be accessed through your car’s display (or voice activation) via a simplified user interface without reaching for your phone. The larger on-screen buttons also help to reduce the chance of accidentally pressing the wrong thing and causing you to spend more time backtracking.

Apple CarPlay app drawer (left), Android Auto (right)

Furthermore, there’s no need to have a hanging phone like a Grab driver, as you can just plug your phone in and keep it out of sight. This also makes you less likely to want to pick up or lean towards your phone to reply messages when a notification comes in.

On that mention, with AA/AC, you can have messages read to you and even issue a reply using your voice. It’s certainly handy, although based on my personal experience with the function on AA, our Malaysian slang does result in some humourous voice typing, so your mileage may vary. Putting on an omputih slang does help somewhat though.

Can I use AA/AC without a head unit?

For Android users that do not have (or want) a head unit or infotainment system compatible with Android Auto, your alternative is the Google Driving Assistant Mode found in Google Maps, which lets you run a “lite version” of Android Auto on your phone.

You won’t get the big screen experience as with AA, but you’ll still get to enjoy easy-to-touch buttons for key features, if you insist on a mount. Sadly, if you’re an iOS user, Apple CarPlay can now be shown on your phone’s display; it needs a compatible head unit or infotainment system to work.

android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
Good luck asking Google Assistant to find you some ice kacang

Is having Apple CarPlay or Android Auto that important?

With AA/AC, you will get to enjoy many of the features you frequent on your phone in your car, but presented in a way that is easier to access and somewhat safer. So, it is important if you want a significant improvement in terms of utility over conventional infotainment systems that can be limited in terms of functionality.

Put simply, it’s a feature that brings a lot of benefits and when choosing a new car, options that offer AA/AC have a major advantage. Should you have the chance to get it, it’s certainly worth it. You can still get by without it, for sure, but having everything you frequently use in an easy-to-access space does make life easier.

android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?
android, is having apple carplay or android auto important?

Keyword: Is having Apple CarPlay or Android Auto important?

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

Adrian Newey considered quitting F1 after Ayrton Senna's death and grappled with ‘huge regret’ about 1994 cars

Legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey has revealed that he considered leaving the sport in the aftermath of Ayrton Senna’s death in 1994. Three-time world champion Senna was tragically killed in a crash at Tamburello during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. That year’s Williams – the FW16 – was ...

View more: Adrian Newey considered quitting F1 after Ayrton Senna's death and grappled with ‘huge regret’ about 1994 cars

Polestar Will Make A Phone Before Apple Makes A Car

Imagine matching your phone with your car. Photo: Polestar The rumors that Apple is working on a car have been around for decades, and the iPhone maker even has test mules out on the road ironing out its self-driving tech. But while all eyes have been on Silicon Valley’s switch ...

View more: Polestar Will Make A Phone Before Apple Makes A Car

Apple Wants To Make Your Windshield A Screen

Isn’t this just too dang easy to see through? Wouldn’t it be better if it had a mobile game ad running along the bottom?Photo: Alexander Spatari (Getty Images) Driving is one of the few times in modern life where you aren’t constantly staring at a screen. This, of course, ...

View more: Apple Wants To Make Your Windshield A Screen

Tesla rolls out Apple Shortcuts, helping automate and use Siri for vehicle controls

Tesla has started to roll out Apple Shortcuts integration in a new mobile app update to help automate and use Siri for vehicle controls. Yesterday, Tesla pushed a new update of its iOS mobile app. In the release notes, the automaker noted that it is now giving access to ...

View more: Tesla rolls out Apple Shortcuts, helping automate and use Siri for vehicle controls

Ford names former Apple exec as president of integrated services unit

Aug 14 (Reuters) – Ford Motor (F.N) on Monday named former Apple Inc (AAPL.O) executive Peter Stern as the president of its newly-formed integrated services business, which is tasked with developing and marketing software for its cars and trucks. Stern, who previously oversaw Apple TV+, iCloud, Apple News+, in ...

View more: Ford names former Apple exec as president of integrated services unit

Apple supplier Foxconn cautious despite beating earnings forecasts

TAIPEI, Aug 14 (Reuters) – Apple (AAPL.O) supplier Foxconn (2317.TW) beat estimates for second-quarter earnings on Monday thanks to a booming artificial intelligence sector but retained a cautious outlook for this year due to global economic uncertainties. The world's largest contract electronics maker downgraded its outlook for full-year revenue ...

View more: Apple supplier Foxconn cautious despite beating earnings forecasts

$130K Cadillac Escalade IQ Doesn't Offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

General Motors announced in March that its future EVs won't have compatibility for the popular feature, and that includes the Escalade.

View more: $130K Cadillac Escalade IQ Doesn't Offer Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

India asks Tesla to copy Apple in pairing Chinese, Indian suppliers -sources

Summary Companies Tesla in talks with India for new plant Tesla wants to use some Chinese vendors, India wants workaround -sources Like Apple, Tesla can find local partners for vendors -sources India has been strict in clearing China investments NEW DELHI, Aug 1 (Reuters) – As Tesla (TSLA.O) examines ...

View more: India asks Tesla to copy Apple in pairing Chinese, Indian suppliers -sources

Man Tracks Stolen Bike With Apple AirTag, Says Police Can't Help

Tesla App Update shows Apple AirPlay is on its way

Apple dives deeper than ever into your new Porsche

New My Porsche App allows car controls within Apple CarPlay

My Porsche App provides new features within Apple CarPlay®

Tesla, Apple alumnus joins Rivian as head of communications

Kia Sorento, Carnival and EV9 to adopt wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Hyundai to add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to navigation-equipped models

Here's whats new for Apple CarPlay with iOS 17

2024 Honda Prologue will come with Apple CarPlay, Google built-in and Android Auto™

KL Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk + Nitto Nomad Grappler: The Best-Kept Secret in the CUV World?

Can I throw apple cores and banana peels out of the car window?

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel