So you’re looking to put an Android Auto receiver into your vehicle but don’t know where to start. Don’t worry, in this article we’ve compiled a list of things you need to know before you buy an android auto receiver to help you in your choice.
First things first…
The truth is you don’t have to buy a new car to get it. Google does not require you to buy a new vehicle just to have access to an Android Auto. Brands such as Alpine, Clarion, and Pioneer are part of the Open Automotive Alliance, so you only need to pay them to have your dashboard system upgraded to the latest version.
Pioneer is the first aftermarket car stereo manufacturer to provide a specified line of receivers that support Android Auto receivers. If you like you can check if the NEX line is compatible with your car on their website. You must think about the price of the receiver unit, as well as the cost of labour you have to pay to have it installed.
Not all vehicle manufactures are on board
If for whatever reason your vehicle manufacturer is not part of the Open Automotive Alliance formed last year, you may be out of luck. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota are some of the most well-known manufactures who are not part of the list. Maybe this is because they have invested a lot in their systems. But keep in mind this is prone to change after a few years.
Safety Regulations
Another factor to consider is that Android Auto is not only meant to help you control your music or navigate around the city, its other aim is to help you focus by keeping your eyes on the road and off your cellphone. Google developed Android Auto in such a way that it complies with recognized automobile safety measures like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA).
It’s run by Google
Essentially, Google is the home ground for Android Auto. So you will find that important cards will spring up as you need them, but not too much at the same time. This is to avoid distractions while driving. In this process, your car will not display cards that have nothing to do with the information you need in a car. For example, if Google is made aware that you’re going on a trip it might pop up directions to the airport once you get inside your car. This comes up as automated messages.
Android Auto depends a lot on voice commands
For Android Auto to be safe for drivers to use, it has to remove any big distractions. For this reason, Android Auto has limited touchscreen buttons. The interface is controlled primarily through voice commands. For instance, if you’d like to send a text message you’ll have to vocalize it. Once you receive a response, Android Auto will read out for you.
Limited support for messaging apps
At the moment Android Auto supports a limited amount of text message apps. Google Messages, Kik, and Hangouts are included in this list. If you like you can find the full list of supported applications in the Google Play Store.
Closing remarks
Although this is an excellent feature, you can’t control your AM/FM or satellite radio. This is a bummer for many who still appreciate things like analog functions. But if your love your music and don’t want to get lost as you navigate it will surely be worth it.
Lifestyle: 6 Simple Tips To Keep Your Car Running And Looking Like New
