Android Auto with Google Assistant Driving Mode

I didn't realize that anyone used Android Auto as a stand-alone app on the phone display. I thought Android Auto was only for vehicles that had it integrated into their infotainment system. I can see how it would be kind of awkward to use it on the phone display itself.

Exactly. No one uses it standalone. Since we are using the in-dash screen, we are not using the phone screen. There is no need for the old Android Auto to take over the phone screen with its black screen. It interferes with using the phone for other things.

Google Maps or Waze are the standalone navigation apps.

dobs108

Here is Android Central on the new Android Auto:

https://www.androidcentral.com/how-use-new-android-auto

When I try to follow the procedure in the link you gave, I do not get the choice for "Try the new Android Auto". So it must not be available to me. Maybe it is specific to certain phones or car models.

I didn't get the choice for "Try the new Android Auto" either. Day one of the roll-out was July 30th. All we have to do is wait for the Play Store update. Here is what Android Central says:

"The new Android Auto is a server-side roll-out, and it can take up to a month before everyone gets encouraged to switch over, but if it's available for you right now, here's where to find it."

dobs108

In the phone, Android Auto / Settings, "Try the new Android Auto" appeared. There was no Play Store update for Android Auto. The latest update was to Carrier Services. My phone, a Moto G4 Play, must be one of the last ones to be updated.

Ran it in the car and the interface is much cleaner. Touch Google Maps to navigate. Your recent places from the Google account are listed separately from Saved Places such as Favorites. There is a mini task bar at the bottom of the screen for other functions such as music.

One of the features I haven't tested yet is an emphasis on Google Assistant and voice entry rather than screen entry. This week I have a trip to give Google Assistant a tryout.

dobs108