Does everyone else find Android Auto to be very primitive?

[dlhort1955]

I had a 2011 Explorer with Sync that was more advanced than Android Auto. Now
I have a 2023 XLT.

I feel like I had Windows 10 and now I am back to Windows 7 or some form of MS DOS.

The phone functions and options are definitely a step back in time with what I can do.

I will admit that I can use WiFi, but that just means I can leave my phone in my pocket.

I will also admit that Google Maps is on the screen instead of on my phone in a holder, but
I mostly listen to the directions and keep my eyes on the road.

For my purposes, I guess I just wanted to rant and wish I had Sync back.

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[Glen Baker LLC]

YES , especially the graphics, which I thought looked like Windows 3.1 compared to the cheapest Buick I owned The Encore. Other than maps I haven't played with Android auto much.

Even with the tiny 2" screen that my wife's 2016 Escape has it's still includes the date.

 

[Darnon]

YES , especially the graphics, which I thought looked like Windows 3.1 compared to the cheapest Buick I owned The Encore. Other than maps I haven't played with Android auto much.

Even with the tiny 2" screen that my wife's 2016 Escape has it's still includes the date.

Neither of those are Android Auto; they're the vehicle's native UI.

 

[Glen Baker LLC]

Neither of those are Android Auto; they're the vehicle's native UI.

Yep. Just saying.
I also know it's not "sync"
I have sync on my Ford 350 and my wife's Escape.
Downloading apps in Android auto seems to be a little troublesome for me.
Have a safe 4th

 

[AutobahnSHO]

Android Auto has much more capabilities- and will get updated in 20yrs. Ford won't be updating the UI on the vehicles after a few years from sale unless they HAVE TO.

 

[LSchicago]

Works MUCH better in my 2018 Mustang. It is one of the cost saving items in the Maverick. Give an 8" screen, but cheap out on the OS.

 

[Toddman45]

I like Android Auto I find it to be way better than Ford's sync system plus Google Assistant is way more responsive than anything Ford offers. Plus it can be hands-free and wireless so you don't have to take your eyes off the road, just say Hey Google.

 

[bgn]

The XL/XLT infotainment, as far as I'm aware, is specific to the Maverick. In other words, poor software and poor hardware. The Sync 3 is marginally better. Neither one will receive major updates, so I'm glad we have the CarPlay and AA functionality.

 

[Jeff D.]

Voice commands with Android Auto are way better than Sync 3's, in my opinion, as is text messaging.

I do like the formatting of Sync 3 better than Android Auto, but AA has to fit and work in a bazillion different size and shape displays, so....................understandable it's not formatted to our size screen as well as it could be.

I'll agree with others, AA does "appear" outdated, regardless of any advancements it has under the hood.

 

[Scott Asheville]

Remember that there is Android Auto, and then there is a very different and very advanced animal known as Android Automotive Operating System. Which will probably run all Ford vehicles within a few years.

 

[01jimfiji]

I use to hear my text messages when they came in on AA but not any longer. Seems to be regressing.

 

[MetalsGeek]

I use to hear my text messages when they came in on AA but not any longer. Seems to be regressing.

I generally don't bother with the cable to run AA, and just let my Android 11 phone interface via Bluetooth. It seems to me that SMS and MMS messages appear OK on the Mav display, but RCS messages do NOT. I've missed some very important ones as a result. Some members report being able to hear RCS texts but my system will not, and nobody at the dealer has a clue.

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