One of the biggest reasons I prefer Android Auto to Apple CarPlay is the number of apps available for Google’s infotainment system. They basically fall into three categories: navigation, messaging, and music and audio. While overall the catalog is sufficient for the average user, Like me, you’re starting to want more apps in Android Auto.

But Android Auto is not as open a system as regular Android, because Google maintains tight control over which apps can be displayed in its car-optimized version, limiting itself to certified ones. But there is always a way to get more: in my experience, The simplest, most reliable alternative without requiring root Android Auto Apps Downloader is an open source project hiding some real gems.

AAAD is the easiest way to extend Android Auto utilities

Owning and using Android Auto Apps Downloader is a little different As for the method of installing any app for Android Auto, it actually boils down to downloading the app from Google Play Store and if it is compatible with the car version, the next time you get into the car the icon of the app will appear and you can use it.

In this case, you will need to install Android Auto Apps Downloader. APK format and allow that platform to install the app on the device (a permission from the phone’s Settings). This can be done without too much mystery from GitHub, where you can also find information about its operation, limitations and support.

Installation process from GitHub

Android Auto Apps Downloader is a type of small application store. Apps developed for Android Auto that are not approved by Google. And you don’t need to do anything special to see it on the car’s screen: tap on the list, confirm the download and after a short while you’ll see it another one in the menu (but I haven’t made this adaptation to Android) Automatic, always as much as a compatible app in the Play Store may not be good).

As information: Android Auto Apps Downloader is free to download and useHowever, you are limited to installing one app per month. If you want more, you have to go to the checkout and pay 3.5 Euros to have the entire launcher.

I have mixed feelings with this Android Auto Apps Downloader: I learned about the initiative almost a few years ago, I thought it was great in its operation and simplicity, and I have used it ever since and have had good results, but it has been stagnant.

So not only is its appearance a bit outdated (the good thing is that it has no impact on the experience), the project is also Started with 10 existing apps and the same ones remain, although the responsible development team promises more: Widgets for Carstream, Fermata Auto, Scree2Auto, AA Mirror, AA Stream, AA Mirror Plus, Performance Monitor, AA Passenger and Android Auto, which allow you to watch YouTube videos on the car screen, for example .

And that’s a shame: I like to find alternatives that increase the usefulness of Android Auto without doing a lot of searching or resorting to root, but if the catalog doesn’t grow and adapt, the future looks black. But it’s still functional right now, and if you’re interested in trying out new apps for Android Auto or finding some that unlock functions that Google-certified ones don’t, this is the best option.

Cover | Montage with Mockuphone, AAAD and Eva Rodríguez de Luis’ own photo

Xataka on Android | How to install apps on Android Auto