How to Connect Google Maps to Car Display Android

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In this digital era, GPS navigation systems have become an essential part of our everyday life. It has made it so much easier for us to get directions to our destination without getting lost along the way. One of the most popular GPS navigation apps is Google Maps. It has gained immense popularity because of its reliable navigation services and real-time traffic updates. However, looking at your phone to get directions while driving can be a major safety hazard. That’s where connecting Google Maps to your car display comes in handy. In this article, we will discuss several easy methods to connect Google Maps to your car display for an effortless and safer navigation experience.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Connect Google Maps to Your Car Display

Google Maps is an incredibly useful tool that can help you get to your destination faster and more efficiently. However, constantly looking down at your phone while you’re driving can be dangerous and is illegal in many countries. Connecting Google Maps to your car display will enable you to use the app without having to take your eyes off the road. This will keep you safe behind the wheel and allow you to focus on driving. In addition, having a larger display for Google Maps allows for better visibility and clarity, making it easier to navigate and avoid any wrong turns.

Method 1: Via Android Auto

Android Auto is a popular car integration system designed to offer smart in-car entertainment and navigation services to Android phone users. Here’s how you can connect Google Maps to your car display using Android Auto.

  1. First, make sure that your car supports Android Auto. If your car has an infotainment system, chances are it supports Android Auto. You can check online or with your dealership.
  2. Turn on your car and plug in your Android phone using a USB cable.
  3. On your phone, download the Android Auto app from the Google Play Store and open it.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup.
  5. Select "Google Maps" from the list of available apps.
  6. Follow the prompts to install the Google Maps app on your phone if it’s not already installed.
  7. You can now start using Google Maps on your car’s display. Simply say "Ok Google" and ask for directions, or use the touchscreen display to enter your destination.

Pros:

  • Hands-free navigation for a safer driving experience.
  • Bigger and easily accessible display for better visibility
  • Convenient voice commands make it easier to use

Cons:

  • Requires Android Auto compatible car and phone.
  • May be affected by phone battery life and other app interferences.
  • Installation and setup may require some time and effort.

Method 2: Via Bluetooth

Another easy way to connect Google Maps to your car display is through Bluetooth connection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it.

  1. Make sure that your car’s infotainment system supports Bluetooth connectivity and it’s turned on.
  2. On your Android phone, go to "Settings" and select "Bluetooth."
  3. Toggle Bluetooth on and search for your car’s Bluetooth connection.
  4. Select your car from the list of available devices and connect to it.
  5. Open Google Maps on your phone.
  6. On your car’s infotainment system, switch to Bluetooth mode and locate your phone’s Bluetooth connection.
  7. Pair your phone with the infotainment system.
  8. You can now use Google Maps on your car’s display screen.

Pros:

  • Simple and easy to set up.
  • Does not require additional hardware or software installations
  • Most vehicles come with built-in Bluetooth connectivity support.

Cons:

  • May not provide the same level of integration found in Android Auto.
  • May have performance issues due to poor Bluetooth signal quality.
  • Phone battery life may be a concern.

Method 3: Via MirrorLink

MirrorLink is a car connectivity system that allows you to control your Android device from your car’s dashboard. Here’s how you can connect Google Maps to your car display using MirrorLink.

  1. Make sure that your car’s infotainment system supports MirrorLink connectivity.
  2. On your Android phone, download and install the MirrorLink app.
  3. Open the app and select "Connect" on the home screen.
  4. Connect your phone and your car’s infotainment system using a USB cable.
  5. Select "Google Maps" from the list of available apps.
  6. You can now use Google Maps on your car’s display screen.

Pros:

  • Provides a high level of integration with your car’s infotainment system.
  • Allows you to control your phone from your car’s dashboard.
  • Provides an easy-to-use touchscreen interface.

Cons:

  • Requires MirrorLink compatible car and phone.
  • May have performance issues because of the USB cable connection.
  • Software updates or limitations with phone and car model.

What to Do If You Can’t Connect Google Maps to Your Car Display

While these methods work for most people, some may encounter issues. Here are some possible fixes you can try if you can’t connect Google Maps to your car’s infotainment system.

  • Make sure that your phone and car’s infotainment system are compatible with the same version of Android Auto, Bluetooth, or MirrorLink.
  • Check your phone’s connection settings to make sure it is set to "allow access" and is discoverable by the car’s infotainment system.
  • Restart your phone and infotainment system.
  • Check for software updates for both your phone and car’s infotainment system.

Bonus Tips

Here are some bonus tips to help you get the most out of your Google Maps experience on your car display.

  • Set up your destinations before you start driving to avoid dangerous fidgeting while driving.
  • Make sure the volume is loud enough so you can hear the directions over other noises in the car.
  • Keep your phone charged and within reach so it’s ready for any sudden changes in your route.
  • Use voice commands to make navigating more seamlessly between destinations.

5 FAQs

Q: Will these methods work for iPhone users as well?

A: Unfortunately, currently Android Auto and MirrorLink are not available for iOS users, but Bluetooth connection can still connect your phone’s Google Maps to your car’s infotainment system.

Q: Can I connect Google Maps to my car display wirelessly?

A: Android Auto and MirrorLink require a wired USB connection to work, but Bluetooth can connect wirelessly depending on your car’s infotainment system.

Q: Is it safe to use Google Maps while driving?

A: Using Google Maps is safe, but looking at your phone while driving is not. That’s why it’s important to connect Google Maps to your car display for safer navigation.

Q: Can I use Google Maps for offline navigation?

A: Yes, you can download maps for offline use within Google Maps. This is a useful feature for areas with poor network connectivity.

Q: How much data does Google Maps use?

A: Google Maps uses about 0.67 MB of data per minute of use, so it’s important to have a data plan that can handle the amount of usage if you aren’t using an offline map.

Final Thoughts

With the methods mentioned, you can easily connect Google Maps to your car display and use it for safer and easier navigation. Android Auto, Bluetooth, and MirrorLink are effective options that can provide a hands-free experience. With the bonus tips, you can fully enhance your navigation experience and arrive at your destination safely and swiftly.