Google has launched Android Auto Wireless for the Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P. But there’s a catch: it’s only available in North America – for now, at least.
The biggest downfall of Android Auto is that, due to the sheer amount of data that needs to be sent back and forth, it requires a compatible smartphone to be connected to a supported in-car entertainment system by way of a USB cable.
Android Auto Wireless aims to fix that by introducing a Wi-Fi network that smartphones can use to tap into Android Auto, at last affording you the option to launch Android Auto without taking your phone out of your bag or pocket.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- A car or aftermarket receiver that is compatible with Android Auto Wireless.
- A Pixel or Nexus phone with Android 8.0 Oreo or higher as follows:
- Pixel or Pixel XL
- Pixel 2 or Pixel 2 XL
- Nexus 5X or 6P
- The Android Auto application (version 3.1 and up).
- A high-quality USB cable for initial setup.
“The first units supporting Wireless are available from JVC and Kenwood, and we expect more products to roll out throughout the year,” said Google. “Wireless is currently supported on Pixel, Nexus 5X, and Nexus 6P in North America,” it added.
Related: Huawei P20
Big G then went on to say that it will be introducing support for more devices, including the Huawei P20 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S9 (and, of course, the Galaxy S9 Plus) in the near future – though it was unable to provide an exact time frame.
Will you be taking advantage of Android Auto Wireless? Let us know over on Facebook or Twitter @TrustedReviews.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
