Android operating systems are becoming more and more common in new cars and commercial vehicles, especially in the range of recently launched electric vehicles that are slowly but surely finding new homes.
The list of manufacturers now moving towards a Google-infused infotainment offering includes Audi, Renault, Nissan and Polestar/Volvo, as well as GMC, Ford, Lincoln and Rivian, with more to follow in 2025.
It’s a godsend for anyone familiar with an Android smartphone, because it essentially mirrors what you have in your pocket, only on a much larger screen. But most of the time, an Android car operating system (or AAOS, for short) will also work well with Apple CarPlay, meaning you can also sync Apple products and mirror your phone’s screen that way.
Not to be confused with Android Auto, which is Apple’s CarPlay phone offering, Android Automotive is a native operating system that leverages the processing power of a modern vehicle’s infotainment system and all of embedded data to deliver a deeper, more connected experience when behind the wheel – especially when parked (safety first).
Not only can you download a number of apps directly from the Google Play Store onto the tablet-style infotainment touchscreen, but they can also connect to many Google accounts and third-party apps (think Netflix, Spotify and plus) to use the vehicle’s voice assistant, as well as control connected objects at home or in the office thanks to Google Home integration.
After spending many weeks behind the wheel of various new models with Android Automotive, I’ve put together a list of some of the lesser-known apps that I think are the most useful, the most entertaining, or just the most fun .
After all, who wouldn’t want a fake fireplace crackling on the dashboard while waiting for an electric vehicle to charge?
1. PlugShare
Everyone has their favorite route planning app and most Android Automotive systems use Google Maps as their go-to mapping service, with built-in EV information, so you can plan routes based on vehicle charge. battery and other parameters.
But PlugShare allows users to filter nearby charging stations by speed or plug type, as well as provide accurate and reliable information on how to find hard-to-reach charging stations, with live data and real-time reporting from users on which ones are. “in use” or any defect that could put the charging stands out of service.
It’s not perfect and there are still some bugs and clunky UX features, but it’s a very handy tool for those who find navigating to EV points via Google Maps a bit hit or miss.
2. EasyPark
Popular with Polestar owners, this handy parking app is now being rolled out to other manufacturers, including Renault, and aims to reduce the stress of paying for parking sessions.
Simply open the app when you’re at a parking destination (it covers 2,200 cities and 4,000 parking operators, mostly in Europe) and it will automatically initiate a parking session based on the vehicle’s location.
All payment details are stored online, so simply start the session with the press of a button. It will even automatically end the parking session and charge you accordingly when you leave.
No need to download additional apps, call a local number or fumble for change to power a broken parking meter. The only downside is coverage, but EasyPark regularly adds new partners and expands to new locations.
3. Angry Birds
It may be obvious, but Angry Birds is one of the most compelling (and addictive) in-car gaming experiences that also looks great on the big, crisp infotainment screens that have become an integral part of modern vehicles .
There are fees attached to the car version, but it’s a small price to pay to kill a few minutes on the school commute.
4. Vivaldi Web Browser
Another Polestar first now available on more systems, the Vivaldi web browser allows safe and easy access to the internet when parked. It’s possible to set keyboard shortcuts to favorite sites, as well as enjoy browser-supported games – although they’re not as good as those you can download directly to the system.
This is an interesting solution for accessing those websites – or particular information – that are not accessible through the applications available on the Google Play Store. Is it much better than your smartphone browser? Probably not, but most infotainment screens are much larger, so web pages generally look much better.
5. SongPop for Renault
Many thanks to this app which helped me save time while waiting for a tire replacement during the recent Renault 5 launch. SongPop is currently only available on certain Renault models (it may be rolled out later in the future), but it’s a fun, interactive music quiz that covers most decades and genres, so all ages can get involved.
Multiple players can join in the fun and use the smartphone as a quiz controller by scanning a QR code on any connected device, or simply test your musical knowledge against the processor during those long charging stops.
Oh, and the little snippets of music used in the game remind us how absolute tunes your Spotify algorithm is probably not working.
6. Car chimney
Perfect for the holidays (or winter in general), this app does exactly what it says on the tin, mainly by turning your in-car infotainment system into a roaring open fire.
Turn up the heated seats, set the interior temperature to maximum and you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re not enveloped in the cozy glow of a country pub, rather than stuck in a traffic jam on the way to visit to the in-laws. . Don’t be tempted to pour yourself a pint.
7. GameSnacks
Another great way to kill time, this collection of fast-paced HTML5 arcade games is ideal for younger members of the traveling party who may have the attention span of a gnat.
Ninja slice of cake And Xtreme Scooter went down well with my youngest, entertaining them for about two minutes each. Luckily, there are dozens of games available, so you only need to spend at least 30 minutes.
8. Tube
Most drivers will likely have various streaming service subscriptions, with Android Automotive supporting services such as YouTube and Amazon Prime Video. But Tubi is a great solution for those who lack premium accounts for the previously mentioned apps.
Tubi is one of the largest streamers of free TV shows and movies, with a vast library of entertainment ranging from indulgent to scary. There are even Tubi Originals starting to catch on.
You’ll have to put up with a fair amount of interruptions from commercial breaks (nothing on this planet is free anymore), but it’s otherwise a good way to watch a movie or enjoy a dose of your favorite comedy when you are parked.
9. MyRadar Weather Radar
Tesla just started layering radar-based weather reports onto its bespoke navigation app with its latest software update, and owners are loving it. But those who aren’t behind the wheel of a Tesla can still enjoy a similar experience with MyRadar.
Just launch it and the app offers an animated weather radar around your current location, as well as along the route, so you can see what kind of rain or snow could ruin your trip.
There’s tons of extra content for those obsessed with all things weather, as well as more serious features, like flood and fire alerts.
