Android Auto on China smartphones - what works and what doesn't?

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The problem with Android Auto and China smartphones

Android Auto Error China Smartphones

Android Auto has established itself as a popular solution for using smartphones safely in the car, but encounters obstacles when used with many Chinese smartphones. These devices, often equipped with customised operating systems and without pre-installed Google services, require special adaptations in order to use Android Auto. 

This blog post explores the challenges that users of Chinese smartphones with Android Auto experience, from installation issues to compatibility questions. We also look at how Magisk modules and other workarounds can be used to overcome this barrier and provide useful tips on how to successfully set up Android Auto on devices such as Xiaomi, Oppo and other non-standard supported smartphones.

Is Android Auto compatible with my smartphone?

Unfortunately, this question often has to be answered with "NO", as there are compatibility problems with many Chinese smartphones. The latest Chinese smartphones often have the normal Google services pre-installed on the system and only the Play Store has to be installed manually. However, this does not apply to Android Auto, this service is often not pre-installed. In order to function, the app must be a system app and this is only possible by complex means. 

However, there are exceptions: Xiaomi devices with Global Firmware or a Xiaomi.eu ROM as well as OnePlus smartphones, which are usually equipped with OxygenOS, usually support Android Auto. This makes them a favoured choice for users who do not want to miss out on the seamless integration of Android Auto.

Why doesn't Android Auto work even though I installed it from the Play Store?

If you install Android Auto from the Play Store, it is a data app, not a system app. You have to pack it into the system folder and this is only possible if the device is rooted. 

How can I install Android Auto? 

This is quite time-consuming and with most devices you first have to unlock and then root your device. We ourselves do not really recommend this method, as a root is a major intervention and offers many gateways for intruders. If you are confident enough to do this, Magisk module is a good option and also offers the corresponding module.

At https://github.com/sn-00-x/aa4mg you can find all the information you need. Instructions on how to install Magisk modules on your smartphone and how to root your device can usually be found at XDA Forums.

You can find good instructions for various China smartphones with Magisk modules on Androidplus.jp

Which smartphones are compatible with Android Auto?

There are only a few. All Oneplus devices should work with Oxygen OS firmware and Xiaomi devices with Xiaomi.eu or Global firmware should have no problem. However, caution is always advised, as individual cars may cause problems. Skoda and a certain VW Golf are known so far.

What alternatives are there?

Some users have reported using the BAIDU CarLife app. You can probably install this on your smartphone and on an Android-compatible car and then it should work. 

You can find a short guide to this on Reddit and we have found the app on APKpure.com. Unfortunately, we haven't tested it yet as we don't have a compatible car. 

SCREENSCARE is also possible if the Android system in the car supports it.

Kompatible Android Auto Smartphones

How do I recognise whether a smartphone supports Android Auto?

This is very simple. On every product page, under "Product details", we have the item "Android Auto" at the bottom. We also have a large yellow "Compatibility Check" button that lists the advantages and disadvantages, including Android Auto.

Is my car compatible with Android Auto?

The real obstacle to using Android Auto is often not the app or the smartphone itself, but the multimedia systems of the various car manufacturers. While some manufacturers enable the seamless integration of Android Auto, others either do not support it or frequently encounter problems. 

On the page Google Android Auto, you can check whether your car is compatible. Although a list of compatible car brands is available on the Google website, it does not always provide clear information.

Common sources of error when Android Auto is not working?

  • Date & time: It is important that the current time is set both on the smartphone and in the car.

  • Empty the app cache: Over time, data accumulates in the cache through the use of the app, which can sometimes lead to problems. Clearing the cache can often help.

  • Country / region: The region set on the smartphone can also play a role, as Android Auto does not work in China, for example, due to the restrictions of Google services.

  • USB plug and cable: It is often simple connection problems caused by a wobbly plug or an inefficient USB cable. A high-quality cable can often be a simple solution.

The CONCLUSION

Android Auto and China Smartphones conclusion

If you are considering a Chinese smartphone and want to use Android Auto, it is important to choose carefully. Well-known brands such as Oppo, Vivo, Realme, Honor, Asus, Nubia as well as Xiaomi, Redmi and OnePlus can sometimes have difficulties with Android Auto. This is often due to the fact that, although Google services are pre-installed and the Play Store can be easily installed, Android Auto is not integrated as a system app. Without rooting the device, it may be difficult to use Android Auto effectively and rooting a smartphone involves a lot of effort.

For users who rely on Android Auto, it is advisable to purchase a compatible device. Devices from Xiaomi with Xiaomi.eu or Global ROM and OnePlus with Oxygen OS firmware usually work without any problems. To be sure, check the compatibility on www.tradingshenzhen.com under "Product Details" or use the yellow "Compatibility Check" button. If you are unsure, we are also available by e-mail at [email protected]

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