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Google sees Android Auto adoption increasing exponentially, with the company claiming the in-car experience is already available in more than 200 million vehicles.
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution
The increase in adoption is not surprising. Despite GM trying to start a trend, customers love his Android Auto and CarPlay. That’s why many automakers, including Honda and Ford, have rushed to confirm commitments to offer these systems in their cars, regardless of what their rivals decide.
Android Auto is currently available in wired and wireless configurations, depending on the type of support provided by each automaker. Some models have both connections, allowing drivers to choose between wired and wireless.
The latter has a clear advantage, since it does not need to be plugged in when starting the engine. Android Auto connects automatically even if your phone is in your pocket or backpack.
Android Auto Wired to Wireless
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution
Converting a wired Android Auto connection to a wireless connection has become more convenient thanks to wireless adapters, which typically sell for less than $100. AAWireless pioneered this product category, and Motorola’s MA1 helped expand that category, giving customers more wireless Android Auto upgrade options.
There are countless devices on the market today, including devices from generic Chinese brands that offer more affordable models. A device like this costs as little as $20, so if you’re okay with the lack of long-term updates and support, it’s probably worth a try.
However, the number of options available to users who want to upgrade Android Auto from wired to wireless continues to grow.
Raspberry Pi “Adapter”
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution
Using software documented and maintained on GitHub, anyone can turn a Raspberry Pi into an Android Auto wireless adapter in a few easy steps.
The project is called AAWirelessDongle and has no special requirements other than a Raspberry Pi with USB OTG or gadget mode. You will also need Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This makes sense since it’s meant to run Android Auto without cables. External adapters are also supported if wireless connectivity is not built-in.
Once the project is successfully installed (all instructions can be found on the GitHub page), you will be able to run Android Auto wirelessly and natively without using the mobile companion app. According to the developer, startup should be complete in about 30 seconds, so if Android Auto doesn’t start right away when you turn on the engine, wait a while (especially during the first boot).
This repository allows you to generate an SD card for your Raspberry Pi and convert your board into an Android Auto wireless dongle. The entire process takes just a few minutes.
Cheap edition
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution
In theory, Android Auto wireless adapters are more convenient for non-technical people. Simply connect your device to your car and pair it with your phone to start using Android Auto without cables, providing a plug-and-play experience.
The Raspberry Pi version is primarily aimed at more tech-savvy people, but you probably won’t get a Raspberry Pi if you’re not tech-savvy in the first place.
Although Android Auto Wireless has clear advantages, it also has disadvantages. The most notable thing is the effect on the battery. Wireless connections have a greater impact on battery life than wired connections (which also charge your phone, albeit at a slower rate).
I’ve been using Android Auto wirelessly in my car for over a year now, and the battery is noticeably draining, especially on long trips. However, I also carry a cable to charge my phone. The big advantage lies in the charging method. The phone can be charged wirelessly (using a third-party adapter or built-in charger if your vehicle supports wireless charging) or by cable. If you use a cable, you can connect your phone to his USB port in the car or use a dedicated cigarette lighter charger, which usually provides faster speeds.
Android Auto wireless gives you the benefit of faster charging compared to a wired connection, especially since you can choose how your device charges. You may end up using a cable behind the wheel even though Android Auto is running wirelessly.
The most expensive way to get Android Auto wireless in your car is to upgrade your head unit. Companies like Sony and Pioneer offer premium aftermarket receivers that are compatible with most vehicles on the road. However, depending on the feature lineup and touch panel size, an Android Auto-enabled head unit can cost upwards of $1,000, although most models don’t exceed $500. Even if your car doesn’t have Android Auto at all, you can still upgrade your head unit and get the system by installing a compatible model. A basic device with wired Android Auto costs around $200, but the Chinese brand also offers a more affordable version with a $100 price tag (though it has questionable quality and long-term There is no guarantee of support or updates).
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