5 ways Android Auto became the clear winner in the dashboard war against CarPlay - Android Police
5 ways Android Auto wins the dashboard war against CarPlay
Despite CarPlay’s name recognition, Android Auto quietly excels where it matters most. Here are the five advantages that make Google’s in-car platform a standout for many drivers.
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Google Maps still leads
Google’s mapping head start and massive data advantage translate into more reliable routing, stronger real-time traffic insights, and broader platform availability (including CarPlay). Apple Maps has improved significantly and may be preferable in some regions, but Android Auto benefits from Google Maps’ depth and consistency as its default navigator. -
Gemini beats Siri for in-car voice control
Apple launched Siri first, but privacy constraints, cautious cloud adoption, and slower iteration have held it back. Google’s Gemini brings more accurate, conversational responses, stronger third-party integration, and helpful AI features like summarizing long texts or answering complex queries (e.g., a quick visitor’s guide to your destination). For hands-free control, Android Auto has the edge. -
Smarter, more actionable notifications
CarPlay prioritizes minimal distraction by funneling everything through Siri, limiting on-screen interactions. Android Auto, meanwhile, allows glanceable messages and quick actions for calls or replies. For many drivers, that can be faster—and arguably safer—than wrestling with a voice assistant that mishears commands. -
Wider third-party app support
Android Auto reportedly supports several thousand apps, while CarPlay’s catalog remains under 1,000. That broader support means your niche favorites are more likely to work—and even mainstream options like Facebook Messenger integrate on Android Auto, while CarPlay blocks them due to stricter distraction rules. -
Built-in speeding alerts and speed readouts
CarPlay shows the current speed limit, which is great on unfamiliar roads. Android Auto goes further by displaying your speed and warning you if you exceed the limit—when you’re actively navigating or using supported apps like Waze. Availability can vary by Android version and vehicle, but it’s still a practical win for Android Auto.
So, which platform is better overall?
It depends on your priorities—and neither option is worth switching phone ecosystems for. Still, Android Auto pulls ahead in mapping, voice assistance, notifications, app support, and speed alerts. On your next road trip, it might be wise to let the Android user take the wheel for in-car navigation.