Have you ever felt bored while driving long distances or during heavy traffic? Wishing there was a way to listen to your favorite music or podcasts through the infotainment system of your car? If yes, then you might want to learn How to Add Music Apps to Android Auto!
The Android Auto feature has become an increasingly popular choice for in-car entertainment, allowing drivers to stay focused on the road while being able to access music, maps, messaging, and other apps from their Android devices. However, though Android Auto supports a number of music apps like Spotify, Google Play Music, and Amazon Music, some users still want to add other apps to access a wider range of songs, audiobooks, and podcasts while driving.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Add Music Apps to Android Auto:
There are several reasons why Android Auto users may want to add music apps to their in-car entertainment system, such as:
1. Access to more music apps: If you have a subscription or playlist in apps like Tidal, SoundCloud, or Deezer, you can add these apps to your Android Auto system to enjoy your favorite tunes on the go.
2. More variety: Adding new music apps to your Android Auto system can help you discover new artists, genres, or podcasts that were not available in the preloaded music apps.
3. Better integration: Some music apps are specifically designed to work with Android Auto, providing better functionalities like voice control, better navigation, and more seamless transitions between different music apps.
Method 1: Via App Compatibility:
Google has a strict policy for app compatibility with Android Auto, and new apps are regularly added to the list. Here’s how to get started:
1. Go to the Google Play Store and download the desired music app.
2. Once the app is installed, toggle on the “Unknown sources” option on your Android device by heading to:
Settings > Apps and notifications > Advanced > Special app access > Install unknown apps. This will enable you to install apps that are not shown by Google as compatible with Auto.
3. Connect your phone to your car’s display unit via USB cable.
4. The Android Auto app should now open on your car’s display, and you’ll be able to see the new music app that you just installed.
Pros:
– Easy to download apps from the Google Play Store.
– Automatic updates ensure that newly added apps are compatible with Android Auto.
Cons:
– Not all apps are compatible with Android Auto; you may still end up with a limited selection of music apps.
Method 2: Via MirrorLink:
MirrorLink allows you to use your Android phone with compatible cars that have MirrorLink-enabled audio systems. Here’s how:
1. Download and install MirrorLink-compatible apps to your Android phone from Google Play Store.
2. Connect your phone to your car’s display unit via USB cable.
3. Wait for a notification to appear on your phone asking if you want to connect your phone to MirrorLink.
4. Once connected, you can open compatible music apps from your car’s display unit.
Pros:
– MirrorLink supports more apps than Android Auto.
– Provides a more seamless integration of apps with your in-car entertainment system.
Cons:
– Not all cars are equipped with MirrorLink-compatible audio systems.
– There are fewer MirrorLink-compatible apps compared to Android Auto.
Method 3: Via USB Dongle:
Another method to add music apps to Android Auto is to use a USB dongle. Here’s how:
1. Purchase a USB dongle that supports Android Auto.
2. Go to the Google Play Store and download the desired music app.
3. Connect the USB dongle to your phone’s USB port.
4. Connect the USB dongle to your car’s display unit via USB cable.
5. Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
6. Grant permissions and allow access to the new music app.
Pros:
– The USB dongle can support a wide range of Android Auto-compatible apps.
– Easy installation and compatibility with most cars.
Cons:
– Additional cost to purchase the dongle.
– Requires a USB port on both phone and car.
What to Do If You Can’t Add Music Apps to Android Auto:
If none of the above-listed methods work for you and you still cannot add the music app to Android Auto, try the following fixes:
– Ensure that both the Android Auto app and the Music app are updated to the latest version.
– Make sure that your phone is running the latest version of Android available.
– Check if the music app is region-locked or has any restrictions that might prevent it from working with Android Auto.
– Factory reset your Android phone, then reinstall the music app and Android Auto to see if it works.
Bonus Tip:
For best experience while using music apps with Android Auto, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with voice commands to avoid getting distracted while on the road. Also, make sure to keep your Android device charged to avoid power interruptions during long drives.
5 FAQs:
Q1. Can I add any music app to Android Auto?
A: No, Android Auto only supports apps that are compatible and adhered to Google’s policies.
Q2. How do I check if a music app is compatible with Android Auto?
A: You can search for the app in Google Play Store and check if it’s listed under the ‘Android Auto supported apps’ section.
Q3. How many music apps can be added to Android Auto?
A: There isn’t any specific limit, but it depends on the available storage on your Android device and the compatibility of the app with Android Auto.
Q4. Can I add music apps using Bluetooth connection?
A: No, music apps can only be added via wired connection, i.e. USB cables.
Q5. Is it safe to use music apps while driving with Android Auto?
A: Yes, Android Auto is designed with safety in mind, and it supports various voice commands and integration with the steering wheel to avoid distraction and ensure safe driving.
Final Thoughts:
Adding music apps to Android Auto is easy and can greatly enhance your driving experience by providing you access to a wider variety of music on the go. Different methods like App Compatibility, MirrorLink, and USB dongles provide great solutions for adding more apps to your Android Auto system. In case you still can’t add the desired app to Android Auto, try the fixes mentioned above. Nevertheless, always make sure to keep safety a top priority while driving, including obeying traffic laws and avoiding distracted driving.