Android Auto is a popular system for cars. It shows maps, plays music, and manages calls on your car screen. This helps you use your phone safely while driving.
Many cars now support wireless Android Auto. You might notice your phone turns on Wi-Fi by itself when you get in the car. This happens even though Bluetooth is used for pairing. Is this normal?
Bluetooth Isn't the Whole Story
When you first set up Android Auto, your phone pairs with the car using Bluetooth. But this is just the first step. A website called 'slashgear' reported this. 'Arabia Business' also saw the report.
After pairing, most data moves to a wireless connection. This uses Wi-Fi Direct. Wi-Fi Direct creates a direct link between your phone and car. You don't need a router or a regular Wi-Fi network.
This is why your phone turns on Wi-Fi. It connects directly to the car. This happens even if no Wi-Fi network is around.
Why Not Just Use Bluetooth?
Bluetooth works for connecting speakers or smartwatches. But it's not fast enough for all of Android Auto. Bluetooth 5.0 has a speed of about 2 megabits per second. This is okay for music. But it's too slow for high-quality maps and app data.
Google uses Wi-Fi Direct for faster speeds. This allows maps, navigation, and apps to work smoothly. It can even play videos when the car is stopped, if the system supports it.
Google requires Wi-Fi support at 5 GHz. This is needed for wireless Android Auto to work well.
What Does Bluetooth Do Then?
Even though most data uses Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth is still important. It helps the car find your phone. It also handles the first pairing. Bluetooth continues to manage phone calls. It uses the Hands-Free Profile (HFP). This provides a stable connection and uses less power.
Not Always a Perfect Experience
Wireless Android Auto is easy to use. But it has some downsides. Some users have connection problems. There can be small delays in response. It also uses more battery power than a wired connection.
Also, using Wi-Fi Direct means your phone can't connect to another Wi-Fi network. The direct connection to the car uses the Wi-Fi interface. If these limits are a problem, using a USB cable is a good choice. A wired connection is more stable. It uses less battery. But you have to plug in your phone each time.