Version 2.0 of Android Auto is also coming to Android smartphones

Google is going to make Android Auto available on smartphones. Until now, the interface could only be used in cars equipped for this purpose. The application will initially only be distributed in countries where Android Auto is already available. The Benelux does not fall under this.

Google says the move is aimed at the millions of consumers who do not have Android Auto-compatible vehicles. While both the existing and new versions of Android Auto are officially limited to markets in Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, France, the United Kingdom, and about 20 more countries worldwide, this isn’t the end of the exercise for interested readers. Google makes the announcement on Monday and on the same day the apk file also appeared on apkmirror.com.

The smartphone version of Android Auto requires Android 5.0 or later. The app supports music playback via Spotify, Pandora and Google Play Music. In addition, the app is easy to operate Google Maps with the extra large interface. Voice commands, which Google says it will expand in the near future, can be used to make phone calls and send messages. The app can also be set to start automatically when a car is connected via bluetooth. According to Google, there are now more than 200 different car models from 50 brands equipped with Android Auto.