Android Auto Archives

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

I wish someone told me about these 5 Android Auto settings before I bought my new car

A 2003 PT Cruiser was replaced by a 2022 Hyundai Tucson after a transmission failure. The Hyundai Tucson features modern technology, including Android Auto. Key settings in Android Auto can enhance the user experience: 1. Taskbar Widgets: Enable taskbar widgets in the Android Auto settings to display miniature widgets for multitasking. 2. Launcher Customization: Rearrange the app drawer and hide infrequently used apps for a more organized interface. 3. Change Home Screen Layout: Adjust the layout to place the media app closer to the driver for easier access. 4. Play Media by Default: Disable the automatic playback of the last played media upon startup for more control over audio selection. 5. Gemini Actions: Create multi-step commands for tasks like navigation and media playback with a single command to streamline the driving routine.

AppWizard

July 8, 2026

This fan-favorite Android Auto video app is calling it quits, but with a sweet goodbye update

Fermata Xtream, a popular app for streaming videos and live television on Android Auto, is ceasing further development as announced by its developer, Malebuffy. A final update, version 2.3.1, has been released, which includes enhancements such as fixed main menu item reordering, a main menu color change option, simplified mirroring functionality, the addition of a Plex client in an experimental phase, and various bug fixes. Fermata Xtream is a paid application, with a free version available on GitHub, but users need to purchase a paid “Enabler” app to access all features. There are no plans for future updates from the developer.

AppWizard

July 7, 2026

Android Auto just became much more useful for motorcycle riders with this app update

Sygic has launched its Motorbike Mode, now integrated with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, providing a dedicated navigation experience for motorcyclists. This mode allows riders to explore twisty roads, offers real-time elevation changes, monitors lean angles, and provides weather updates, along with offline maps. The integration enhances usability with larger maps on motorcycle displays, high-visibility alerts for hazards, speed limits, and weather changes, and allows navigation controls through the motorcycle's native buttons. Voice guidance is available through Bluetooth helmet systems. The update, version 26.4, responds to user feedback for a motorcycle dashboard experience. It is compatible with select models from manufacturers like Honda, Harley-Davidson, and Indian, while some premium features are exclusive to Sygic’s Premium+ subscription.

AppWizard

July 7, 2026

Android Auto gets navigation optimized for motorcycles, CarPlay too

A new navigation offering has launched on Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay for motorcycle enthusiasts. The third-party navigation app Sygic has introduced a tailored experience for motorcycle riders in its latest v26.4 update. This update integrates with Android Auto and CarPlay, providing an alternative to conventional navigation apps. Key features include weather updates, elevation data, scenic route options, pulsing visual alerts for accidents, hazards, and changing weather conditions, as well as rider-specific features like terrain profiles, destination weather forecasts, nearby fuel station awareness, and motorcycle-friendly routing options.

AppWizard

July 6, 2026

Latest Android Auto updates are crashing for some users

Users of Android Auto are experiencing significant crashing issues, particularly after the release of version 17.2, with some instability also noted in version 17.1. The application crashes shortly after launch, often when users navigate the map or select media, causing the vehicle's display to revert to the native infotainment system. Most affected users are part of the Android Auto beta program, while those on the stable track using version 17.0 have not reported similar problems. Users can revert to a more stable version by exiting the Play Store beta program, uninstalling updates, or sideloading an APK of a previous version.

AppWizard

July 6, 2026

Android Auto is crashing (again), and nobody knows why (again)

Android Auto users are experiencing frequent disconnections and crashes after the recent update to version 17.2, which was rolled out on July 3. Reports indicate that disconnections last from seconds to minutes, and crashes occur whenever audio is played. The issues affect a wide range of Android devices, and users have recommended delaying the installation of the update or reverting to the previous version. The root cause of the problems is uncertain, with speculation that they may be linked to other updates, such as the Play services update from late June. Google is aware of the situation, as indicated by reports on the Google Issue Tracker, but these issues are categorized under Android 17 beta and differ from feedback on Reddit.

AppWizard

July 5, 2026

I tried a hidden Android Auto feature Google doesn’t want you to know about

Android Auto can be expanded through the installation of third-party applications, allowing users to go beyond its default navigation and media functionalities. To sideload apps, users must enable Developer Mode on their Android device and for Android Auto, then install the Android Auto Apps Downloader (AAAD) from a GitHub page. Notable third-party apps include CarStream, which allows YouTube streaming while driving, AAMirror for screen mirroring, and Fermata Auto, which supports various multimedia functions. However, sideloading raises safety concerns and may lead to issues with app functionality due to updates from Google.

AppWizard

July 4, 2026

I tried Android Auto’s new Adobe Acrobat PDF app

Android Auto has introduced the Adobe Acrobat app, which allows users to access PDFs in an audio-only format using a "Read Aloud" feature. This enables drivers to listen to documents being read aloud while driving, with controls for play, pause, and skip available via the car’s touchscreen or steering wheel buttons. The app is particularly useful for multitasking, allowing users to absorb information from meeting notes, important documents, or industry reports during commutes. While the audio quality may not match that of professional audiobooks, it serves as a practical tool for accessing written content on the road.

AppWizard

July 2, 2026

Android Auto more widely rolling out updates for Spotify and YouTube Music apps

Android Auto is rolling out updates for its media applications, including a redesigned Spotify music player that features a visually appealing layout with blurred album art, a Material 3 Expressive tracking bar, and a more intuitive button arrangement. This redesign, which started appearing in January, is now more widely available. Other apps like YouTube Music and Pocket Casts are also expected to receive similar design enhancements. YouTube Music has introduced a more prominent “Thumbs Down” icon for easier management of listening preferences, but some users have reported an issue with the “Library” tab disappearing, which can be resolved by resetting the app.

AppWizard

June 30, 2026

Here’s How Google Meet Works On Android Auto While You’re Driving

In 2026, Android Auto will introduce features to improve the driving experience, including native meeting controls for Google Meet integrated into the car's infotainment system. Users must update the Google Meet app and connect their phone to access a dedicated Meet icon, which includes a Scheduled tab for upcoming meetings and a History tab for recent contacts. The system allows seamless handoff of audio and control between the phone and car when entering or exiting the vehicle. The Google Meet experience in Android Auto will be audio-only, disabling video feeds and interactive functions like polls and chat to prioritize driver safety. Essential controls such as mute/unmute and hang up will be available on the car's display, and the app can automatically mute the microphone to reduce background noise. Users must pull over to access visual elements on their phone.