Android Auto vs Apple CarPlay: Finding The Best One For Your Drive

In the world of modern technology, making connections is easy, perhaps not always with humans but definitely with machines. New cars are equipped with increasingly refined technology, enabling more convenient human-machine interaction. Music systems are also being upgraded day by day. Currently, most cars rely on Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. These systems bridge the gap between smartphones and car infotainment systems, offering a seamless experience that makes driving safer and more enjoyable.

Android Auto transforms your car’s dashboard into an extension of your Android device, allowing you to access Google Maps, music, messages and even voice assistants with ease. Whether you’re opting for a traditional Android Auto setup or exploring wireless devices for clutter-free connectivity, the technology ensures that your focus stays on the road while your favourite apps are just a tap or voice command away. With devices available at various price points, there’s an option for every budget.

Similarly, Apple CarPlay integrates your iPhone into your car’s infotainment system. From Apple Music to Siri and navigation through Apple Maps, CarPlay offers an intuitive interface tailored for drivers. Whether you’re considering an Apple CarPlay-compatible stereo or downloading the CarPlay app for supported vehicles, the platform enhances your driving experience by bringing your iPhone’s core features to your car. Like Android Auto, wireless options are also available, providing convenience without the mess of cables.

Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are must-haves for anyone seeking a smarter, safer and more connected driving experience. With a variety of devices, apps and systems available, you can choose the one that best suits your vehicle and lifestyle. 

Android Auto

Android Auto brings Android applications to your car’s infotainment screen so that you don’t need to unlock your phone while driving to check notifications, send texts or pick up calls. You can control features like navigation, calls, texts, maps and music. Android Auto is integrated into Android smartphones so users don’t need to download it separately. You can connect your smartphone either with a cable or wirelessly.

Users need a smartphone with a minimum of Android 9 (previously Android 8.0 or newer) for a wired connection. For wireless connectivity, the requirement is Android 11, with Google Pixel and Samsung phones needing at least Android 10.

Like other Android devices, it supports customisable app layouts, multiple apps at once, split-screen functionality and both dark and night modes. It also features Google Assistant for voice controls and comes with Google Maps by default.

As the Android operating system is open to third-party apps, Android Auto supports a wider range of third-party applications. Android Auto is completely based on Android OS and after a recent update, the Android system now supports AI features. Some of these AI features, such as message summarisation, smart replies and advanced voice commands, have also been rolled out for Android Auto.

The only drawback of Android Auto is that it works exclusively with Android OS-enabled smartphones or tablets.

Apple CarPlay

Apple CarPlay, or simply CarPlay, integrates with iOS devices to let you track directions, make calls, send and receive text messages and play music of your choice.

You can drive hassle-free without missing a single notification, as your car’s display shows everything on the built-in screen. CarPlay now comes with more applications and customisable wallpapers.

While Apple CarPlay comes with Apple Maps, users can also opt for Google Maps; however, based on our experience, Google Maps doesn’t work as smoothly with Apple CarPlay.

Users can also reply to emails, send text messages, manage calendars and explore cities with unprecedented detail for roads, neighbourhoods, trees, buildings and more. Landmarks can even be viewed in 3D and with just one tap, you can locate nearby fuel stations.

With Siri on iOS and CarPlay, users can send audio messages, eliminating the need to glance at their phones. Additionally, you can share your estimated time of arrival with friends and family while driving or navigating via Apple Maps.

One of the standout features of Apple CarPlay is Apple Music, which lets everyone in the car contribute to what’s playing using SharePlay. With iOS 17.2 or later, users also get support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

The minimum requirement for CarPlay is iOS 13 or later.

Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are smartphone integration platforms that work flawlessly. However Android Auto is more popular in India, as the majority of smartphone users in the country prefer Android devices over iPhones.