Android: The best CarPlay alternatives

"Carplay" means Apple's attempt to make its operating system socially acceptable even in motor vehicles. There are also similar approaches for Android, we will tell you in this practical tip which alternatives to "Carplay" arise.

Android CarPlay alternatives: "Android Auto"

Google itself competes directly with Apple's "CarPlay" with "Android Auto".

• Initially, "Android Auto" was only possible if your vehicle and its infotainment system supported "Android Auto". In principle, all cars that went on the market after 2015 offer the prerequisites to support the system. Compatible manufacturers include VW, Seat, Kia, Hyundai, Honda, Audi or Skoda. Only Toyota has so far refused to introduce it. You can find a list of all compatible models here. In the meantime, Google has also made it possible to use "Android Auto" without connecting to the vehicle. Rather, it can now be operated autonomously using a smartphone.
• One of the advantages of "Android Auto" is that it works the same way in all cars. In addition, the operation for Android users is easy, after all, the surface on the smartphone and in the car is almost identical.
• After the successful connection, the apps approved by Google are mirrored on your display by the vehicle. You cannot use the smartphone and its basic functions during the connection. Operation is via Google Now or the touchscreen input of the car.
• The range of functions currently extends to navigation with Google Maps, telephony and music playback via Spotify, for example.
• We will show you how to set up "Android Auto" in another article.

Android CarPlay alternatives: "AutoMate"

"AutoMate" is an Android launcher that is intended to make smartphone operation in the car easier.

• The great advantage of "AutoMate": You only need your smartphone, but no expensive upgrades of the vehicle or the establishment of compatibility between the car and smartphone, because all operation is carried out via the smartphone launcher, not via the vehicle display.
• Only the basic functions that are required in the car can be controlled via the launcher, such as navigation, notifications or calls. Other functions are not possible while the smartphone is being used in the car, so that you are not distracted by your smartphone while driving.
• Nice-sized icons also significantly increase operability. The app also has numerous setting options. You can make various adjustments, such as setting up certain gestures or displaying the current speed on the smartphone display.
• Comparable alternatives are "Ultimate Car Dock" or "Car Dashdroid".

Android CarPlay alternative: "Car Mode for Galaxy"

Samsung takes a slightly different approach. The smartphone manufacturer offers its own "Car Mode" in its Galaxy models, which should adapt and facilitate the use of the smartphone to the car.

• The prerequisite is that your car radio supports the MirrorLink standard.
• In cooperation with VW, Samsung also offers the so-called Car-Net e-Remote app for the Gear S2. With the smartwatch, you can save the parking position or operate the air conditioning after successful pairing with the vehicle.
• Similar to "Android Auto", you control calls, music or mobile phone navigation via the vehicle display or the S-Voice voice control on the smartphone.
• HTC offers a similar mode with its "HTC Car".