Android Auto is a great way to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel, but most vehicles with Google’s auto interface require a USB cable connection. However, Motorola recently announced an affordable new adapter that makes Android Auto work wirelessly.
Both Android Auto and Apple’s CarPlay display a version of your smartphone’s interface onto the big screen inside your car. And if your vehicle is one of the more than 100 million cars with Android Auto support, you probably use it already but hate plugging in your phone. Unfortunately, many vehicles don’t support Google’s latest version, which works wirelessly, and now you can. So instead of buying a new aftermarket stereo with support for wireless Android Auto, get Motorola’s new MA1 adapter.
To be fair, this isn’t the first wireless adapter for Android Auto we’ve seen. That said, most of them come from no-name brands, aren’t yet available but are on Kickstarter, or cost over $100. That’s where Motorola comes in, and here’s what you need to know.
- Fast 5G Wi-Fi data transmission
- Easy setup with direct USB plug-in support (to existing Android Auto units)
- Automatic connections over Bluetooth
- Small, lightweight, sleek design that’s easy to install
Motorola announced a new MA1 wireless Android Auto adapter at CES 2022, which will be available later this month. Those with a car that already has Android Auto can simply plug this dongle into the existing USB cable instead of their phone, then throw it in the glove box. From there, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of Android Auto without plugging in your phone. Just pair it to the dongle over Wi-Fi, and enjoy the same experience without wires running through your console and over your gear shifter.
Android Auto allows drivers to easily access their preferred maps app on the big screen in the car, use media or messaging apps, stream music, and more, all without having to touch the screen. Plus, you can take advantage of the Google Assistant and use your voice to get driving directions, play music, or send a text message.
The new Motorola MA1 wireless Android Auto adapter will be available starting January 28th for just $89.95 from Motorola’s website or participating retailers. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like you can connect multiple phones to the adapter, and it doesn’t work with Apple CarPlay.
Source: Motorola
