23 Essential Android Auto Apps

Using your smartphone while driving is unsafe, but it’s undeniably convenient for tasks like music, navigation, and calls. Android Auto addresses this issue by enabling hands-free functionality, keeping you connected while on the road. Supported by various apps, Android Auto enhances your driving experience. However, not all apps are equally beneficial. Here, we’ve curated a list of the 23 most essential Android Auto apps.

Top Android Auto Apps for 2021

Android Auto offers the convenience of hands-free operation. Utilize the “OK Google” command to activate Google’s voice assistant, delegating tasks without touching the screen. All listed apps are controllable via voice commands, ensuring your attention remains on the road. Explore the following categories of Android Auto apps:

Table Of Contents

Top Maps and Navigation Apps for Android Auto

1. Google Maps

This should not surprise anyone. One of the primary uses of Android Auto is navigation. With the launch of Google Maps, nowhere is too far to reach. Simply request navigation from Google, and it will open the Google Maps app, providing turn-by-turn directions on your screen. The added benefit is that you don’t need to glance at the navigation panel since Google Maps also offers voice directions. If there’s one app essential for Android Auto, it’s Google Maps.

2. Waze

Google Maps excels in navigation, but for real-time traffic, Waze prevails, especially in the US. Waze provides turn-by-turn navigation and alerts you to road closures due to accidents or other causes. Google acquired Waze due to its effectiveness, yet it remains autonomous. To streamline your travel time, opt for Waze.

Top Music Apps for Android Auto

1. Google Play Music / YouTube Music

Android Auto, being a Google product, naturally supports Google Play Music. Simply instruct your voice assistant to play your favorite playlist, artist, or song. However, bear in mind that Google Play Music is transitioning to YouTube Music. If you’re still using Google Play Music, it’s time to transfer your content to YouTube Music. YouTube Music is also compatible with Android Auto.

Download: Google Play Music (Free trial, $9.99/month) / YouTube Music (Free trial, $9.99/month)

2. Spotify

Google Play Music is excellent, but Spotify reigns supreme in streaming songs. Its discovery feature surpasses all competitors, introducing me to countless new artists. If you’re subscribed to Spotify, maximize its potential with Android Auto.

Download: $9.99/month (Free trial available)

3. Amazon Music Unlimited

For existing Amazon Prime subscribers, there’s no need to purchase an additional music subscription because Amazon Music Unlimited is already included with Prime. Although its user interface isn’t the best, the minimal interaction required with the app’s UI on Android Auto makes it an ideal music companion for driving.

4. Pandora

Another popular music streaming service, Pandora is compatible with Android Auto, allowing you to listen to your favorite songs and personalized radio stations during commutes or road trips. The new voice mode enables you to search, play, pause, skip, adjust volume, and thumb-up music with a simple voice command. Millions swear by Pandora, and with Android Auto compatibility, you can enjoy its entire music catalog and podcasts on long drives.

Download: Free, 4.99 per month for Plus, 9.99 per month for Premium

Other Supported Music Streaming Apps

All the mentioned music apps work seamlessly with Android Auto as they support voice commands. Consider your current music service when choosing among them. Other streaming apps compatible with Android Auto include Tidal, Sony Music, and more. Additionally, Indian users will be pleased to know that Android Auto also supports Gaana.

Top Messaging Apps for Android Auto

1. WhatsApp

WhatsApp, boasting 1.5 billion monthly active users, integrates smoothly with Android Auto. You can listen to your messages and respond to them via voice commands. However, VoIP calling is not currently supported on Android Auto, meaning you can’t make calls using the service.

2. Telegram

For a secure messaging experience without relying on WhatsApp, Telegram is supported on Android Auto. This means the built-in voice assistant can read and respond to your Telegram messages through dictation.

3. Textra

Textra users, who favor this third-party texting app over the built-in service, will be pleased to know that Textra also supports Android Auto. While extra features like GIFs and stickers aren’t available, responding to normal text messages is supported.

Download: Free with in-app purchases

4. Facebook Messenger

Facebook faces controversy, yet over a billion users rely solely on Facebook Messenger. If you’re among them, accessing Messenger via Android Auto poses no issue. However, only messaging is available; audio and video calls are not supported.

5. Skype

Skype remains popular for business chats. Whether you’re a workaholic needing to promptly respond or someone compelled to reply to crucial messages, Skype’s Android Auto support enables hands-free interaction through voice commands.

6. Hangouts

Believe it or not, many users still rely on Hangouts, particularly within business circles due to its integration with Google’s G Suite. Being a Google product, it’s among the first messaging apps to be compatible with this platform. If Hangouts is your preferred choice, you can continue using it seamlessly on Android Auto.

Other Supported Messaging Apps

Besides those mentioned, Android Auto also supports Kik (free), WeChat (free), textPlus (free), and more.

Top Podcast and Audiobook Apps for Android Auto

1. Pocket Casts

While many prefer listening to music while driving, I belong to the group that prefers podcasts over music. For all my podcasting needs, Pocket Casts has been my go-to app, and I’m glad it supports Android Auto. Using Pocket Casts, I enjoy my favorite podcasts while driving, enhancing my journey. If you’re a podcast enthusiast, this app is worth trying.

Download: free, $0.99/month for premium features

2. Stitcher

Another excellent podcast player supporting Android Auto is Stitcher. Stitcher for Podcasts streams your favorite shows, providing an adventure during your commute. Featuring over 100,000 podcasts from NPR, This American Life, WNYC, New York Times, Earwolf, and more, you’ll never miss your favorite podcast.

Download: Free, $4.99/month for premium exclusive content

3. Audible

My default listening while driving is podcasts, but for longer commutes, over 2 hours, I switch to audiobooks. Countless audiobooks have accompanied my drives. When it comes to audiobooks, Audible stands out as the premier service. As a marketplace for buying audiobooks, Audible’s compatibility with Android Auto enhances its appeal. Thanks to Audible, no driving journey, no matter its duration, ever feels tedious.

Download: $14.95/month (Free trial available)

4. Google Play Books

Google Play Books, a top audiobook app for Android, offers a prime way to enjoy purchased audiobooks and ebooks from Google Play. It grants access to millions of best-selling ebooks, comics, textbooks, and audiobooks, allowing reading on tablets or listening on the go. The app is compatible with Android, iOS, and web browsers, enabling access via computers. Notably, while the app is free, ebooks and audiobooks on the Play Store require payment.

5. Overdrive

Worldwide, public libraries provide millions of e-books and audiobooks, spanning classics to new best-sellers. Borrow them for free instantly via Overdrive. This app lets you enjoy your favorites on mobile or computer, including audio and video streaming. Access feature films, comedies, documentaries, children’s shows, and more on Android and iOS. Ideal for avid readers or audiobook enthusiasts on long drives.

Additional Podcast and Audiobook Apps

Most major podcast and audiobook apps support Android Auto. Prominent ones include Anchor (free), Podcast addict (free, in-app purchases), Podcast Republic (free, in-app purchases), Librivox ($1.99), and Smart AudioBook Player (free, in-app purchases).

Top Radio Apps for Android Auto

1. iHeartRadio

Among radio listeners, drivers constitute the largest demographic. Radio has been the primary entertainment source for drivers for decades. Thanks to the internet, we now have access to thousands of live AM and FM stations from nearby and distant cities. iHeartRadio stands out as one of the finest internet radio apps, offering abundant content catering to enthusiasts of news, music, and sports alike.

TuneIN

TuneIN, a popular internet radio app on the Google Play Store, also supports Android Auto. Listen to 100,000+ AM & FM online radio stations delivering music, news, sports, and more right to your car. TuneIN also supports podcasts, allowing convenient switching between favorites. If you use Android Auto, TuneIN is a must-have app.

Download: Free with in-app purchases

Scanner Radio

Scanner Radio caters to a niche hobby, appealing to enthusiasts who revel in tuning into fire, police, weather, amateur radio, air traffic, and marine scanners worldwide. Whether you’re drawn to these frequencies, Scanner Radio offers a tailored experience, granting access to your preferred radio stations or the top 50 scanners with the highest listenership. Seamlessly integrated with Android Auto, this app ensures you never miss a beat, allowing you to indulge in your passion even while on the road.

Explore Other Android Auto-Compatible Radio Apps

Expand your options with additional Android Auto-compatible radio apps like Simple Radio (free with in-app purchases) and myTuner Radio (free with in-app purchases).

Discover the Finest News and Sports Apps for Android Auto

1. NPR One

NPR One offers a fresh approach to accessing NPR and local public radio station content. It serves as a comprehensive platform for listening to stories, shows, and podcasts. Ideal for kickstarting your day, the app delivers current headlines followed by relevant stories. Notably, NPR One is compatible with Android Auto, enabling hands-free control through voice commands for skipping, pausing, and searching without needing to interact with your device.

2. MLB At Bat

If you’re a devoted Major League Baseball fan who can’t afford to miss a single story, MLB At Bat is the ultimate app for you. It’s the official Major League Baseball app, providing comprehensive coverage of MLB games from Opening Day to the World Series. With Android Auto support, you can even stay updated while driving. A must-have for any baseball enthusiast.

Download: Free with optional in-app purchases.

3. NY Times

Start your day with news via NY Times for Android Auto. Receive breaking news alerts, top stories, and analysis while commuting to your office. With Android Auto support, stay updated on global events before leaving your car.

Explore ABC News

ABC News app, like NY Times, offers breaking news alerts, top stories, and world news. If NY Times coverage isn’t to your liking, give this app a try.

Optimize Your Commute with Top Android Auto Apps

My first experience with Android Auto amazed me. While daily commuting for hours, it’s a game changer. These apps transform Android Auto from utility to entertainment. Share your favorite in the comments below.