Do you have to pay for Android Auto?
What is Android Auto?
Android Auto is a smartphone projection software developed by Google to allow Android phones to interface with vehicle infotainment systems. It extends the Android platform into the car by projecting apps and services onto the vehicle’s in-dash display. This allows drivers to access key features like Google Maps, Google Assistant, music apps, messaging apps and more through an optimized interface designed specifically for driving situations (Android Auto; Get started with Android Auto).
When connected to a compatible vehicle, Android Auto essentially mirrors apps from your phone onto the car’s display screen. It provides convenient access to core functions needed while driving without all the distractions of a full smartphone interface. The voice-enabled system aims to minimize driver distraction for a safer on-the-road experience.
Is Android Auto Free?
The Android Auto app itself is free to download and use. The app can be downloaded for free from the Google Play store on Android devices.
However, in order to use Android Auto, you need a compatible car with Android Auto built-in, or an aftermarket head unit that supports Android Auto. The car or head unit acts as the display and audio system for the Android Auto app on your phone.
So while the app is free, you do need specialized in-car hardware to actually use Android Auto. Most new cars from major manufacturers now include Android Auto compatibility, but for older vehicles an aftermarket head unit upgrade is required.
Android Auto Compatible Vehicles
Many new vehicles come equipped with Android Auto. According to the Android Auto compatibility list, vehicles from brands like Acura, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo have Android Auto integration in their newer models https://www.android.com/auto/compatibility/. High-end luxury brands like Bentley, Lamborghini and Porsche also offer Android Auto in select models.
Used vehicles may require an aftermarket stereo upgrade to get Android Auto functionality. Many aftermarket head units from brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine and Sony are Android Auto compatible. With an aftermarket stereo upgrade, older vehicles can get touchscreen displays with Android Auto integration. Professional installation is recommended for optimal performance.
Aftermarket Android Auto Head Units
If your vehicle didn’t come equipped with Android Auto from the factory, you can install an aftermarket head unit that supports Android Auto. These allow you to add Android Auto to older vehicles that lack built-in support.
There are many aftermarket head units that feature Android Auto integration from brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine, Sony, JVC and more. These units typically start around $400 or more for mid-range options. High-end units with additional features like wireless Android Auto support or advanced amplifiers can cost $600+.
You’ll need to have the aftermarket Android Auto head unit installed by a professional installer. This will involve custom fitting the new unit into your vehicle’s dashboard and connecting it to your car’s electrical system and speakers. Installation costs generally run $100-200 on top of the head unit cost itself (Source).
Going the aftermarket route allows you to add Android Auto even if your car didn’t include it, but is one of the more expensive options. Shop around for deals on head units and installers to help reduce the overall cost.
Smartphone Projection Alternatives
While Android Auto provides seamless integration and interface between Android phones and compatible car systems, there are some alternatives for other smartphone platforms and basic connectivity:
- Apple CarPlay is a similar smartphone projection system that works with iPhones. It provides an iOS-based interface optimized for driving when connected to a compatible car system.
- Bluetooth connectivity allows you to pair your smartphone to your car’s infotainment system for hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming. This is a cheaper alternative if you don’t need navigation and app integration.
- Auxiliary (aux) cable connections let you play audio directly from your smartphone to your car stereo using a wired connection. This is the most affordable way to play music and audio from your phone.
While these alternatives don’t provide the same level of integration and features as Android Auto, they offer more budget-friendly connectivity options between your smartphone and car stereo system.
Android Auto Subscription
Android Auto itself does not require a subscription fee to use the basic features like navigation, calling and messaging. The Android Auto app is free to download on your smartphone and the software comes built-in on many new vehicles. There is no monthly or annual charge to use Android Auto itself (AutoExpress).
However, some of the services accessed through Android Auto may require paid subscriptions for full functionality. For example, using Google Maps navigation or streaming music from Spotify will require having an active subscription to those services. But Android Auto itself does not charge any subscription fees – the core features work without any ongoing payments (TopGear).
Data Usage
Android Auto uses data from your phone’s data plan to power its connected features. Maps, messaging, and music streaming will all consume mobile data when used with Android Auto according to a Reddit user. Using real-time navigation via apps like Google Maps can use a significant amount of data.
As a rule of thumb, expect Android Auto to use around 5MB of data per hour for navigation according to Drive. This amount will vary depending on area and usage. Streaming music or using other data-intensive apps will increase data consumption. It’s a good idea to monitor your data usage to understand how much data Android Auto uses for you.
Android Auto Limitations
While Android Auto can be very useful for accessing core phone functions while driving, it does have some limitations in terms of app availability and functionality. Android Auto was designed primarily for driving safety, so the number of apps it supports is limited compared to a regular Android phone.
Android Auto only allows apps focused on core functions like navigation, messaging, calling and music/podcasts. Even with supported apps like Spotify or podcast players, the functionality is limited to just audio playback for safety reasons. You cannot access the full mobile app with all its features.
For example, while Google Maps offers several route planning options in the mobile app, in Android Auto you can only start navigation to a destination. There is no browsing the map or searching for places along your route.
Android Auto also does not support video playback at all. So apps like YouTube, TikTok, Netflix and other video streaming services cannot be used. The app selection focuses strictly on audio, voice commands and simplicity.
Overall the limited app functionality is by design, to minimize driver distraction. But it can be frustrating if you are used to full smartphone capabilities. Just keep in mind Android Auto is meant for safe, eyes-free use while driving.
Tips for Using Android Auto
There are a few tips to get the most out of Android Auto:
First, make sure to keep your phone charged. Android Auto relies on your phone’s battery, so having enough charge is critical. Consider bringing a charging cable or wireless charging mount to keep your phone powered while using Android Auto.
Second, remove any bulky phone case for the best connectivity. Phone cases can sometimes interfere with connecting your phone to the car. Taking the case off ensures a solid connection to Android Auto.
Finally, adjust your vehicle’s settings for optimal use. Go into your system settings and make sure media audio, Bluetooth and GPS/location services are enabled. This allows full integration with Android Auto’s calling, media and navigation features.
Following these simple tips will enhance your experience using Android Auto and allow you to take advantage of all it has to offer.
The Bottom Line
To recap, Android Auto itself is free to use if you already have a compatible Android phone. However, there are some additional costs associated with using Android Auto:
- You’ll need an Android Auto compatible vehicle or aftermarket head unit which involves additional hardware costs.
- Using Android Auto’s smart driving and navigation features will consume cellular data, so you may incur additional data charges depending on your plan.
But the Android Auto app and software is free to download and does not require any subscription fee. You simply need a compatible Android phone and vehicle to start using this convenient smart driving platform.
So in summary, while Android Auto itself is free, getting it fully set up and integrated in your vehicle may involve some additional hardware costs and data usage fees. But once installed, Android Auto provides a seamless connected driving experience at no ongoing subscription cost.