Even though 50 carmakers offer Android Auto for hundreds of new vehicles, those with older cars have been unable to access the driver-friendly tech. Until now.
Google has just rolled out a new update for Android Auto which allows it to be used directly through a smartphone application, rather than a vehicle’s infotainment system. This means that anyone with a smartphone running Android 5.0 and above can access Android Auto and enjoy its full functionality.
The same basic interface can launch automatically on a smartphone when it connects to a vehicle’s bluetooth system or be launched manually. When it does, the same familiar applications of Android Auto are available, including Pandora, Spotify and iHeart Radio. Additionally, the application allows for calls and texts to be made hands-free.
The main downside of the application compared to the fully-fledged Android Auto system is that across much of the United States and many other countries, touching your phone while driving is illegal. This technically means that drivers have to pull over to interact with the app, instead of simply navigating its many options through a vehicle’s infotainment screen.
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