With so much of our daily routines embedded in our phones, it stands to reason that an all-in-one app dedicated to creating a safe and seamless driving experience should be celebrated.
Google’s Android Auto has been around for a couple of years now, but it has only recently been made available to anybody with a suitable Android phone. In this article, we’re looking at the important update to Android Auto and how it could benefit thousands of drivers across the country.
What is Android Auto?
Android Auto was released in early 2015 and was originally developed for Android-enabled cars which would run the software their touchscreen displays. Android Auto has grown to support more car manufacturers and models, but the software, which offers drivers easy access to information while on the road, was previously limited to compatible cars with touchscreen displays.
Basically, Android Auto streamlines information and displays it for you to easily interact with and understand. The software allows you to get real-time traffic updates and directions, as well as giving you a place to access and play music, make phone calls and send messages without interfering with the actual act of driving. With news that the app is now coming to Android phones, more road users than ever will be able to modernise their commutes, regardless of the age, make or model of their car.
What you can do with Android Auto?
Android Auto relies largely on voice commands, and is centred towards making information easily accessible while driving – without needing to take your eyes off the road. You can send messages by dictating them to the app, and replies are read aloud back to you, for example.
Traffic updates are posted as easy-to-read notifications on the display, and the app makes sure to limit the amount of pop-ups on screen at any time so as to avoid driver distraction. Android Auto is focused on safety, and surfaces the important information for you while making sure you’re able to focus on the task at hand.
Now that the app can function fully on your phone, you can simply mount your phone to your dashboard and enjoy a simplified hub which can guide you safely on your journeys.
Will Android Auto work on my phone?
The Android-exclusive app works on any android phone running Android 5.0 (or ‘Lollipop’). If you’re running an earlier version of Android, you can update your phone’s firmware to make Android Auto compatible with your device.
Driver safety with Android Auto
Android Auto shows Google’s commitment to safety. As standard, the app will only allow you to use the on-screen keyboard when the car is parked, and the focus on voice commands will limit the amount of taps and swipes you have to make. This helps you to concentrate on driving; navigating the road ahead of you instead of having to constantly fiddle with your display to skip songs, read updates or check messages. All the information you need will be simple to access and understand at a glance.
This update to Android Auto turns your phone from a central distraction to a valuable tool which aims to improve the standards of driver safety. With the app now available on a much wider scale, hundreds of thousands of drivers can enjoy a seamless, modern driving experience which cuts out any unnecessary distractions.
Oaks Services are one of the leading suppliers of MOTs and car repairs in the South East. We provide a friendly, comprehensive service to every customer, and our team of expert engineers will work to identify and solve any problem to get you back on the road quickly and safely. For more information or to book an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
