Android Auto has made it easier to interact safely with phone features, which is why most people use it for maps, navigation, or making phone calls. But that’s not all it can do. If you want to improve your commute or road trips, you’ll want to check out these awesome Android Auto apps.
It’s no secret that Android Auto could be better, but it’s also pretty great with the right car apps. Android Auto runs on your infotainment display, so you might as well get some excitement and entertainment from that screen, especially when you’re not driving. Many of you probably have one or two of these apps, but you’ll want to try them all.
Waze Navigation and Live Traffic
Credit:Â Lucas Gouveia / Jason Montoya / How-To Geek
While Google Maps is obviously preinstalled and the most popular maps app, I highly recommend Waze. In my opinion, it’s the best navigation app. It offers simple directions and alerts before you get stuck in traffic and will help you avoid road closures and other similar issues. Better yet, it’ll reroute you to avoid that 30-minute traffic delay.
More importantly, Waze alerts drivers about road hazards and speed traps, which we can all appreciate. It’s so good that I ditched Google Maps for Waze entirely, which is funny because Google owns both.
YouTube Music
Credit:Â Corbin Davenport / YouTube
Everyone has their preferred music streaming service, whether that’s Spotify, Apple Music, or something else. For me, that’s YouTube Music. It’s already installed on Android Auto, has an excellent interface that’s constantly improving, and endless music for everyone to enjoy.
YouTube Music is packed with features, songs, and lyrics, and I love all the live and acoustic performances it pulls from YouTube. Many other platforms can’t deliver that. Additionally, the suggestions, algorithm, and playlists are better for my tastes. If you’ve never tried YT Music, I love it, and YouTube Premium is even better, with offline playback and more.
Game Snacks
Credit:Â Gamesnacks
Google has made a concerted effort lately to improve Android Auto, including adding a bunch of games like Angry Birds.
Have you ever noticed a little “Game Snacks” app on Android Auto? If not, you’re in for a treat. Game Snacks are little bite-sized games that’ll keep you entertained while you wait for an EV to charge, kids to get out of school, or anywhere else when you’re safely parked. It has everything from retro arcade games to puzzles and more. So, try a few games the next time you have time to kill.
Car Fireplace
Credit:Â Car Fireplace
Have you ever used your TV as a fireplace during the holidays or Christmas morning? Netflix and other streaming services have a “fireplace” that streams on the TV with crackling noises and calming music. I’ve taken advantage of this perk for years, and you can too.
I bet you didn’t know you could get those same vibes in your vehicle. Download the Car Fireplace app and enjoy the soothing sound of crackling wood sitting by the fireplace. This is great for wintertime if you have to sit in your vehicle for any length of time.
Pocket Casts
Credit:Â Pocket Casts
Sure, YouTube Music is okay for podcasts, but if you’re a huge podcast listener, you’ll want something dedicated like Pocket Casts. It’s been around forever, but is still my favorite app for all things podcasts.
Many people love Pocket Casts, but you’ll be glad to hear it works just as great in your car. That includes features like continue listening, which means it’ll pick up where you left off on another device. I also like browsing the huge collection from the Android Auto screen, making it easy to find the latest crime thriller.
Police Scanner & Fire Radio
Credit:Â Google Play
Another Android Auto app I love is Police Scanner & Fire Radio. You can easily access feeds, listen to multiple scanners, and track ongoing situations from the infotainment display.
This app gives you direct access to over 7,000 live police and fire radio chatter feeds. It’s great for law enforcement, firefighters, or enthusiasts who like keeping up with such things. It’s also an excellent way to check the status of an accident ahead, emergency responses, and more.
Fuelio
Credit:Â Fuelio
Are you one of those people who constantly tracks fuel usage or only goes to the gas station with the best prices? If so, you’ll love the Fuelio app.
Fuelio is an excellent Android Auto app for tracking mileage, consumption, and overall costs. While the main draw is gas, it’ll also help with maintenance records, car expenses like new tires, and other vehicle-related information. A GPS tracker will also help find the most fuel-efficient routes.
Audible
Credit:Â Lucas Gouveia/How-To Geek | naumstudiopro/Shutterstock
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to mention Audible. If you’re looking for a better Android Auto experience, the Audible app is a great option that isn’t music.
I jam out with YouTube Music and enjoy endless podcasts with Pocket Casts, but Audible (by Amazon) is a solid choice if you’re more of a book fanatic. There’s a good chance you already have Audible on your phone, but the experience is equally awesome in the car. On longer road trips, I’ll fire up a good audiobook and dive into a series of novels. It’s a great way to mix things up after blasting music for hours. Books on tape are relaxing, distraction-free, and a great way to pass the time.
Remember that many of these apps are only usable while you’re in park, as safety is paramount. Thanks to Android Auto and all the tools available in vehicles these days, there’s no excuse for texting and driving. And by installing apps like YouTube Music, Audible, and Waze, you can listen to music, use your voice to get driving directions, and do more while keeping your eyes on the road and your hands on the steering wheel.