There are a couple of categories of apps that you can use in the car, from the ones for music streaming to Navigation (Duh!) and even messaging or news. So let’s see what they’re all about!
Best Navigation Apps for Android Auto
1. Google Maps
Most people already have Google Maps installed on their phones, but it is still worth mentioning. Just tap on the Navigation icon in the Android Auto interface in order to open it and enter your destination. You can either use your voice or just tap on Set Destination in order to do that. You can also use the app just to see the traffic around you, without setting a course.
2. Waze
Waze is another solid choice for a navigation app. Depending on how you plan to use it, Waze can have a little more extra features that can help you while you’re in traffic. Within the app, other drivers can provide information or alerts about traffic jams, police on the road, potholes and much more. The app can also suggest the places with the cheapest gas near you and it reroutes automatically if needed.
Best Audio Apps for Android Auto – Music, Audiobooks, Podcasts
1. Spotify
You’ve probably heard of and used Spotify before – it’s quite popular. It has immense amounts of music to chose from and it’s great for discovering new beats to drive on, as well. However, to get the full Spotify experience, you’ll have to buy the Premium subscription – or you’ll only be able to use the shuffle mode.
2. Google Play Music
If you don’t already have a preferred app for blasting your jams, then Google Play Music is a good choice, as well. You can add the music you already have in your storage and listen to it through the app, or you can choose to broadcast radio stations. It’s worth giving a try!
3. YouTube Music
This app is only available if you have the Youtube Premium subscription. The app is completely ad-free and you can find almost any song that your heart desires (and exists on YouTube). Additionally, you can download songs and store them for 30 days – so that you can listen to your favorite music while being offline.
4. Audible
You can purchase audiobooks and listen to them – both through this app. If you’re always thinking that you need to get more reading done, but never find the time, next time you’re in a traffic jam, try this app! You can also purchase a subscription service if you don’t want to pick the book yourself or just want to find new interesting things.
5. Pocket Casts – Podcast Player
Pocket Casts is a great app for listening to podcasts while you drive. You can find all your favorite ones in there, but it’s also great for discovering the ones you haven’t heard of yet! It also has cross-device synchronization, so you can continue to listen to your episode on your phone after you get out of the car.
Best Android Auto Apps for Messaging and News
1. Pulse SMS
This is a cross-device SMS app that you can use anywhere to catch up on your messages. It has a clean design, has organization options and it’s configurable to fit your needs. You can also schedule messages or blacklist numbers directly from the app. However, we recommend you send only one message while driving – Talk to you later, I’m on the wheel.
2. Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp
These apps need no introduction, as they are certainly the most popular messaging apps today. They both have great Android Auto support – you can listen to your messages while driving and respond via voice too. If you use these apps daily, then it’s a no-brainer that you get them with your Android auto as well – if you haven’t already.
3. NPR One
If you can’t bear to listen to your local radio – the ads, the mindless chatter, music you dislike, then try this app to stay connected to the world around you while at the wheel. You can catch up on any kind of news while listening to a cohesive, narrative flow. Skip the stories you’re not interested in, or ask for more new on a topic you care about.
What Other People Ask
Best Android Auto Apps – Use with Caution
While most apps categories are truly useful, like Navigation or Music, some aren’t really necessary while driving. We’re talking about browsing the news or answering your messages. Be sure that when you decide to use a certain app, you are safe and focused on the road – we’re that those unanswered messages cand wait a bit longer until you arrive at your destination! So which Android Auto Apps did you use? What was your experience? Let us know in the comments below! Featured Image
