Have you ever thought about staying connected on WhatsApp while driving without taking your eyes off the road? WhatsApp on Android Auto makes this possible by integrating seamlessly with your car’s infotainment system. This allows you to send messages, make calls, and receive notifications hands-free, all through simple voice commands, ensuring you stay focused on driving while staying in touch. Furthermore, this article explains the way to get and use WhatsApp on Android Auto.
How to Add WhatsApp on Android Auto
Installing WhatsApp on Android Auto allows you to stay connected while driving, making it easy to send messages or listen to voice notes hands-free. Below are the steps to get WhatsApp running on Android Auto.
Add the WhatsApp via Phone Settings Menu
If your Android phone operates on Android 10 or a later version, the Android Auto feature is included by default. You simply need to add WhatsApp by following the steps outlined below.
1. Unlock your Android Phone and launch the Settings app.
2. Scroll to the Android Auto option or use the Search feature in the Settings menu to find it.
3. Once it appears, select the option and click on Customize Launcher.
4. A list of applications will display on your screen from that, choose WhatsApp.
5. Select the checkbox near WhatsApp to add the app to AA.
Add WhatsApp Using the Android Auto App
Alternatively, if you can’t find the Android Auto option on the Settings menu or if your device is running on Android 9 or below, follow the provided instructions to add the app on AA.
1. Go to the Play Store from the Home page on your Android Phone.
2. Search for Andriod Auto and click on the Install button.
3. Once the installation is completed, launch the app and head to the General section.
4. Scroll through and check the box near WhatsApp to add to AA.
How to Use WhatsApp on Android Auto
After adding WhatsApp to Android Auto, connect your car and Android Phone using a USB cable. On the other hand, you can also connect the devices wirelessly by selecting the Connect Car option from the AA app (ensure the Bluetooth option is enabled on your device). Within a few seconds, the WhatsApp icon will display on your infotainment unit to receive messages and make calls.
When accessing WhatsApp via AA, the interface is simplified for safe, hands-free operation while on the road. Below is a guide to the key tabs and how to use them with Google Voice control:
| Tabs | Purpose | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Messages | Displays your recent WhatsApp conversations and messages. | You can instruct Google Assistant to read your messages by saying, “Read my messages.” To reply, simply dictate your message, and Google Assistant will send it on your behalf. |
| Notifications | Shows incoming notifications, including new WhatsApp messages. | When a notification appears, you can tap it or use voice commands to listen to the message content. For instance, you can say, “Hey Google, read my WhatsApp notification,” and then dictate a reply if needed. |
| Calls | Displays your recent WhatsApp calls and allows you to make new ones. | To make a WhatsApp call, say, “Call (contact name) on WhatsApp.” You can also attend the calls, review recent logs, and return missed calls from this interface. |
| Voice Messages | Enables you to send and listen to voice messages. | If you receive a voice message, you can ask Google Assistant to play it. To send a voice message, press the Mic button and input your message. It will be sent automatically via WhatsApp. |
| Contacts | Offers quick access to your WhatsApp contacts for messaging or calling. | Use this to easily find a contact and either send them a message or place a call. You can do this by using the touchscreen interface or asking Google Assistant. |
FAQ
Yes. If you find the notifications distracting, go to the Android Auto settings on your phone and adjust the notification preferences for WhatsApp, allowing you to focus on driving.
WhatsApp might not work on Android Auto if the app or Android Auto is outdated, if there’s a connection issue between your phone and the car, or if the necessary permissions are not granted. Other possible causes include problems with the cache, system updates, or even the USB cable being used.
This app needs access to notifications, contacts, and the microphone to function properly with Android Auto. You can check and enable these permissions in your phone’s settings under the WhatsApp app section.