You install apps on Android Auto primarily through your phone's Play Store, not on your car's screen itself. The core requirement is that the app must have a dedicated Android Auto-compatible version. You simply find and install these apps on your Android phone, and they will automatically appear in your car's Android Auto interface the next time you connect.
The process is straightforward. First, unlock your Android phone and open the Google Play Store. In the search bar, you can use terms like "Android Auto" to see a curated list of compatible apps. Major navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze, media players like Spotify and Pandora, and communication apps like WhatsApp and Messenger are all designed for this. After you tap "Install" on your chosen app, the software is added to your phone.
For the app to show up in your car, you need to connect your phone to the vehicle's USB port using a high-quality data cable. A poor cable is a common reason for connection failures. Once connected, your car's display should mirror the Android Auto interface. The newly installed app will be available alongside the default apps. You manage these apps through the Android Auto settings on your phone. If an app doesn't appear, you may need to enable it within these settings.
It's important to understand that app functionality is often simplified for safety. The Android Auto version is a driver-optimized interface, not the full phone app. Also, using the official Google-approved apps ensures the best stability and security, as they are designed to minimize distraction while driving.
| Common Android Auto-Compatible App Categories | Examples |
|---|
| Navigation & Maps | Google Maps, Waze |
| Music & Audio | Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music, YouTube Music |
| Communication | WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype |
| News & Information | NPR One, BBC Sounds |
| Parking & Charging | PlugShare, ChargePoint |
