Android Auto App Released For Use With Pioneer Head Units

Google has just announced the release of a dedicated Android Auto app that enables smartphones running Android 5.0 and above to communicate with compatible head units and car infotainment systems. After a long wait, Android Auto is finally here.

Android Auto was first announced by Google last year, when the company promised that cars would be shipping with the system built-in by the end of 2014. Although that has yet to happen, now users can take advantage of the product by using compatible aftermarket decks from Pioneer. In the U.S. market, the new Pioneer AVIC-8100NEX, AVIC-7100NEX and AVH-4100NEX models all feature Android Auto integration. Pioneer’s website provides a full list of compatible models in different countries.

These Pioneer units will allow users of compatible Android smartphones to connect their devices to gain dashboard access to Google’s in-car interface for voice-activated and touch screen mirrored hands-free calling, audio and app control, and Google Maps navigation. Android Auto also supports hands-free messaging, reading incoming texts aloud and allowing drivers to respond with speech-to-text recognition. To enable this functionality, users must install the Android Auto companion app from the Google Play Store. The app also allows drivers to choose the cars that can access Android Auto when connected to the phone, and which cars to ignore.

It’s important to note the Android Auto app will only provide this functionality if you have the required hardware in your car. Otherwise, it will just display a screen with an option to disable pairing with unknown vehicles. The app is simply used as a link between a phone and a car, so users must have a compatible aftermarket head unit to use the system.

This announcement also marks the beginning of support for third-party Android Auto apps, which are now available on Google Play. Native apps that are available from Google include Maps, Music, and voice commands, and some of the initial third-party apps that are available include Kik, Pandora, Spotify and Soundcloud.

Both Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay signify big changes in the auto industry, illustrating the increasing importance of software in how cars work and interact with drivers. The need for continuity in software is becoming more prevalent as well, in particular for maps and other tools that are constantly changing. By using a smartphone as a central hub for connectivity in the car, drivers will always have the latest information available to them.

Although Google’s release does provide drivers with the ability to use Android Auto, the question remains about when the system will be directly built-in to vehicles. Google initially stated that this would begin by the end of 2014, but this deadline came and went without any specific update from the company. However, many auto manufacturers are said to be working on this initiative, so we may see its availability in new vehicles soon. Stay tuned!