Bought or rented a car that’s been manufactured the last couple of years? The chances are it has Android Auto running the dashboard screen. Making Android devices safe to use whilst on the road, Android Auto utilizes the feature you need whilst driving by connecting to an Android-powered smartphone and using its features such as maps and call apps. The issue however is plugging it in via USB.
Wires and leads have plagued motorists since the advent of digital music, with tape deck adaptors, AUX cables, and charging leads dropped across the dash. Well, Motorola has recognized this and has come up with the Motorola MA1, a wireless USB dongle that allows Android smartphones to connect to Android Auto wirelessly.
Some cars already have this function built-in, but they are, for the most part, newly released cars on the higher end of the pricing scale. In a bid to make wireless functionality more accessible for the masses, Motorola MA1 dongle is a dream come true for existing Android Auto customers.
Using licensed tech directly from Google, it connects to Android devices via 5GHz WiFi, allowing for fast download/upload speeds that won’t compromise the Android Auto experience. It’s currently listed at $89.99, with consumers able to register their interest on the Motorola Sound website.
On the Android Auto front, Google has confirmed multiple improvements to the car operating system that includes remote commands via Google Assistant to warm up/cool down their car and battery charge on car models that support the functions. Pair these with the wireless capabilities of the Motorola MA1 and users have a brilliant wireless Android Auto solution. Google has also confirmed better wireless connectivity on BMW and Ford car models thanks to its new ‘one tap’ Fast Pair Tech feature.
For all the latest on Android, alongside some handy guides, make sure to check and bookmark our Android hub here on PC Guide.
