How to add and organize apps in Android Auto

While driving, the last thing you want to do is scroll through your car’s display in frustration, trying to find the right app or search for the right destination. Instead, you save yourself the distraction by organizing your Android Auto apps beforehand. You can even create quick shortcuts for specific directions or contacts to call. Here’s how to add and arrange apps in Android Auto.

How to add apps to Android Auto

Don’t like the apps that show up on your car’s screen? Let’s show you how to add different ones. First, you need to have the app installed on your phone, so make sure you have all the apps you use. Once installed, they will show up in the Android Auto options if supported. Then they just have to be enabled.

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Go into Connected devices.
3. Tap on Connection preferences.
4. Hit Android Auto.
5. Pick Customize launcher.
6. Checkmark the apps you want to show up on the screen.
7. You can also tap on Add shortcut to the launcher. You can add shortcuts for calling specific people, or to trigger Google Assistant actions.

If you want to discover new apps compatible with Android Auto, check out our list of the ten best Android Auto apps to make the most of Android Auto.

How to organize your Android Auto apps

By default, the system will organize your apps and shortcuts in alphabetical order. That’s not always the best layout, though. If you know you use some apps more often, you want them to be more accessible. Thankfully, you can customize your Android Auto app order.

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Go into Connected devices.
3. Tap on Connection preferences.
4. Hit Android Auto.
5. Pick Customize launcher.
6. Tap on Launcher sorting and select Custom order.
7. Tap and hold on the icon with six dots, next to each app, then drag it up or down. Do this with each app to arrange them as you wish.

How to add shortcuts

Are you curious about Android Auto shortcuts? We can show you how to use them.

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Go into Connected devices.
3. Tap on Connection preferences.
4. Hit Android Auto.
5. Pick Customize launcher.
6. Select Add a shortcut to the launcher.
7. If you pick Call a contact, simply select the contact. The shortcut will show up at the bottom.
8. If you pick An Assistant action, simply type in what you want to request from Assistant in the Assistant command section. You can then name it, test it, or simply hit Create Shortcut.

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