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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Android Auto has a number of security options you need to use.
- Utilizing split-screen and voice controls retains you targeted.
- Turning on Do Not Disturb was the only greatest assist.
Android Auto is designed to assist preserve your arms off your cellphone and your eyes on the street, however that does not imply it’s very distraction-free. In actual fact, getting preoccupied together with your automotive’s display could be simply as harmful as glancing at your cellphone.
Additionally: 6 Android Auto apps I wish I found sooner, because they make every drive easier
Luckily, Android Auto has a number of built-in security options to make your day by day drive somewhat safer whereas nonetheless letting you management your navigation, music, and extra. I’ve used these choices myself, and whereas I can not say I essentially take pleasure in all of them, they’ve helped me keep extra targeted on my drive.
When comfort equals security
This is a have a look at 4 security options try to be utilizing for those who’re not already.
1. Mechanically launch Android Auto
That is foremost a comfort choice, but it surely’s additionally a security setting. If you do not have Android Auto set to robotically join and launch, you need to. Should you’re utilizing your cellphone to fireplace up Android Auto whereas driving, that is time your eyes aren’t on the street. Should you auto-launch, issues like your maps and music are prepared instantly.
2. Break up-screen view
Should you’re utilizing navigation and enjoying music or a podcast, you will need to ensure you’re making the most of among the finest Android Auto upgrades lately — split-screen mode. As an alternative of bouncing backwards and forwards between apps, split-screen allows you to see all of your essential info without delay.
Additionally: I tested Gemini on Android Auto and now I can’t stop talking to it: 5 tasks it nails
To get began utilizing break up display mode, simply faucet the multi-window icon within the backside left. By default, navigation might be nearer to the driving force, and media might be on the alternative aspect, however you’ll be able to change this in settings to have media nearer to you. That is particularly helpful in vehicles which have extensive panorama shows.
3. Voice controls
Though I’ve an array of Alexa gadgets round my home that management a number of lights, followers, and locks, I used to be by no means a lot of a fan of voice controls in my automotive. It was simply simpler to achieve for a button as a substitute of combating with an assistant that did not perceive me. The extra I take advantage of voice controls, although, particularly with Gemini, the better it’s to keep away from reaching for the show.
4. Do Not Disturb
This mode is unquestionably the least enjoyable to allow, but it surely’s had the most important influence on reducing out distractions. With Do Not Disturb turned on, I am not getting notifications each couple of minutes from social media, textual content messages, and extra. I nonetheless get calls from preset contacts, however 95% of digital noise is gone.
Additionally: Android Auto runs faster and smoother now thanks to my 4 easy tweaks
You’ll be able to set this up your self by going to your cellphone’s settings and looking out “Driving.” You’ll be able to set this mode to have interaction solely when linked to your car’s Bluetooth, so it would not kick in when you’re driving in one other automotive.
