The latest update for Android Auto is more than just a few tweaks – it makes the service available to anyone with an Android phone.
Android Auto has been around for two years now, and can be found in over 200 new car models from over 50 brands. But the older cars? They were missing out. Until now.
“We know there are millions of older cars on the road that are not compatible with Android Auto, and many don’t have a screen at all,” Google said it its latest blog post. “We wanted to bring the same connected experience to these drivers too”
The update is for anyone with an Android phone (running 5.0 or later) and gives you a “driver friendly interface” to access Google Maps directions, Spotify and make calls or send messages (with hands free voice commands). Basically it puts your favorite apps and services into one place, so you can access them safer while you are on the road.
You can also now have the app start automatically when your phone is paired with Bluetooth (Google recommends keeping an eye out for Bluetooth-supported car mounts).
The latest versio n will start rolling out “in the coming days”, but you can always sign up on the Android Auto website to get an email when the app is available on your phone.