Apple Music tests out Android Auto integration

For the first time ever, Apple Music is integrating with Android’s car-based platform. Beta version 2.6.0 of the app (which you can find on Android Police) brings Apple Music integration into Android Auto. You have to make sure you have the latest version of Android Auto running, too. Once you have both, Apple Music will now become a top option for streaming in your car. You can stream radio or specific songs. We welcome this integration, especially since it brings options that you might not have access to at the moment. Right now, Apple Music doesn’t work with other Google products, so you still can’t integrate it with Google Home and Chromecast.

Source: The Verge

Android Auto now gives you access to your contact list

Google is bringing in more features to its Android Auto platform. The newest one is being able to access your entire contact list right from the in-car system. Before you’d need to use Google Assistant to get someone from your contact list or it’ll show you your starred contacts, recent calls, or let you dial a number. Now, you just need to head to the phone tab within Android Auto. Tap on the hamburger menu icon and select Contacts. If you’re not in motion, your access to the contact list is unrestricted. But if you’re driving you’ll only be able to tap down the list a few times. That said, this is a reminder to limit the amount of distractions you have when driving.

Source: 9to5Google

Android Auto can be used wirelessly, but only available to a select few

For those wishing to be untethered when they use Android Auto in their cars, your prayers have been answered… sort of. There are a few caveats. One is that it only works with select Pixel and Nexus devices as well as specific head units that are Wi-Fi-certified. The smartphones you need would be the Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Nexus 5, or the Nexus 6P. JVC and Kenwood have a few head units that are Wi-Fi-certified but a lot of these haven’t hit the market yet.

If you’re one of the select few that does have access to these devices, setup is pretty painless. You first have to connect your phone via USB to set the feature up. But once you’ve done that, you can connect your phone to your dash wirelessly the next time. Google says they do plan to support other phones in the future. So we’re keeping an eye out for that.

Source: Android Authority

It’s now easier to unlock phones when connected to Android Auto

Safety has been the main priority for Android Auto team right from the beginning. And while that’s all well and good, there are some features that don’t take into consideration common uses while on the road. One of them is that users are basically locked out of their devices when connected to Android Auto. But a common complaint about this is that a lot of drivers will hand their smartphones for passengers to use the phones. This method is definitely faster and safer than the driver having to use voice commands on the phone. Thankfully, Google has included a Swipe to unlock feature to make it easier to use these devices normally. It’s available for version 2.9 and 3.0 and is already confirmed to be working inside a connected car that’s in motion. Of course, we still advise you to drive safely and responsibly and don’t attempt to use your phone while driving. Pull over and then use your smartphone.

Source: Android Police