{
  "id": 15647492,
  "title": "6 Android Auto features every driver needs to activate before their next road trip",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/6-android-auto-features-every-driver-needs-to-activate-before-their",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-19T19:00:10.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Android Police",
    "slug": "android-police",
    "url": "https://www.androidpolice.com/android-auto-features-to-activate-before-next-road-trip/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Android Auto, a popular car infotainment system, can be enhanced with a few simple modifications. To begin, enable Developer Mode by accessing Android Auto's app settings, scrolling to Version and permission info, and tapping the screen ten times. This unlocks a range of customization options. One notable improvement is the introduction of taskbar widgets, which provide quick access to currently playing media while other apps are open. To enable taskbar widgets, navigate to Settings, tap Connected devices, Connection preferences, and Android Auto, then toggle the widget option. Another useful feature is the Google Play Store within Android Auto, offering a plethora of compatible apps. Personal favorites, such as specific podcast or music apps, can be installed and utilized seamlessly. For those who prefer wireless connectivity, investing in a reliable car charger, like the Spigen Cryomax, can ensure a stable connection despite potential issues. Google Routines allow for automatic adjustments to your driving routine, such as setting a kid-friendly playlist or activating navigation upon arrival. To streamline the Android Auto interface, remove unused apps through the Customize launcher option in Android Auto settings. Lastly, downloading playlists and maps to your device can mitigate connectivity issues, ensuring uninterrupted listening and navigation during long drives.",
  "summary": "It's like adding a turbo to your infotainment system",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Android Police",
        "title": "Upcoming updates mean Android Auto will no longer lock your work life away",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/upcoming-updates-mean-android-auto-will-no-longer-lock-your-work-life",
        "published": "2026-10-19T11:55:20.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "9to5Google",
        "title": "Android Auto ‘Work Account’ support would allow for easy switching in work vehicles",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/android-auto-work-account-support-would-allow-for-easy-switching-in",
        "published": "2026-10-19T16:07:32.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}