If you own an Android phone and want to use it safely while driving, Ralph’s Radio has your solution. We have several in-dash touchscreen radios that include Android Auto, the best way to harness the power of your smartphone in your car, truck or SUV. Both our Vancouver and Victoria locations have interactive displays that allow you to see, touch and operate this amazing technology. Be forewarned: Once you try it, you are going to want it in your vehicle.
How Android Auto Works
If you own an Android smartphone running 5.0 or above, your phone is ready to go with a free download of the app from the Play store. Now you need a stereo system for your dash that is designed to work with Android Auto. Once Ralph’s Radio does that for you, we will help you pair your phone over Bluetooth with the new unit. At this point, whenever you get into your vehicle and plug your phone into the new radio using the proper USB-to-micro-USB cable, Android Auto will launch for you automatically.
What It Does
This is where it gets good. Imagine you have walked out to your vehicle, started it up and plugged in your phone. You start off and realize you need to go to an ATM to get some cash. You simply touch the microphone button on the top right corner of your screen and say, “Find me the closest ATM.” Google Maps will launch and offer to take you to the closest one.
After that, you realize you need to call your friend Larry, so you touch the mic button and tell Google to call Larry Johnson. A few seconds later, you and Larry are talking. A little later, a text message comes in. You will see a notification bar come across the top of the radio screen. You simply tap it and Google will offer to read you the text message, and let you reply to it if you so desire.
There Is More
It gets even better. You can control the music stored on your phone as well as play multiple Internet radio apps. If it is time for you to be reminded of something from your calendar, Android Auto will do that. Want to set a new reminder? Just touch the mic button and set it up, all via voice control.
New applications come out all the time, so it is only going to expand over time. Of course, when Ralph’s does your installation, this feature will look as if it came installed from the factory, and you can keep your steering wheel audio controls plus other popular features.
Add Optional Features to Your New Stereo
You can add some great features to the Android Auto radios offered at Ralph’s, such as a backup camera, SiriusXM Radio and – of course – an upgraded sound system.
The best way to experience this exciting technology is live and in person. We invite you to stop by Ralph’s Radio in Vancouver or Victoria and try it out for yourself. Our expertly trained staff will work with you to find the best solution for your needs. You can also contact us HERE for more information about any of our products and services.