What is Android Auto?

Android Auto Explained
Android Auto brings your favourite smartphone features to your vehicle’s touchscreen, helping you stay connected, informed and entertained on the road. Connect a compatible Android phone to a KENWOOD Android Auto head unit and access Google Maps, Waze, calls, messages, music, podcasts and Google Assistant through a simple in-car display. With wireless and wired Android Auto available on selected KENWOOD touchscreen car stereos, you get safer, easier access to the apps you use every day, without needing to handle your phone while driving.
Need Android Auto fitted to your vehicle?
Speak to a KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer for advice on the best stereo, fitting kit and vehicle integration options for your car, van, campervan or motorhome.
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Benefits of Android Auto
Android Auto makes everyday driving easier by bringing navigation, calls, messages and entertainment together on your vehicle’s touchscreen. With a compatible KENWOOD Android Auto stereo, you get simple app access, voice control and a cleaner in-car experience designed to help you stay focused on the road.
Stay connected without handling your phone
Android Auto lets you make calls, send messages and hear notifications through your compatible KENWOOD car stereo. Use Google Assistant voice control to keep your hands on the wheel and your focus on the road.
Use Google Maps and Waze on your car stereo
Get turn-by-turn navigation, live traffic updates and route guidance on your vehicle’s touchscreen. Android Auto supports popular navigation apps including Google Maps and Waze, making everyday journeys, long drives and work routes easier to manage.
Enjoy your music, podcasts and audiobooks
Access your favourite audio apps directly from your Android Auto touchscreen. Listen to music, podcasts, internet radio and audiobooks through apps such as Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube Music and Audible, depending on app availability and phone compatibility.
Wireless and wired Android Auto options
Selected KENWOOD multimedia systems support wireless Android Auto for a cable-free connection. Wired Android Auto is also available across many models, giving you reliable smartphone connectivity when you want to charge your phone at the same time.
A cleaner, easier touchscreen experience
Android Auto uses a simple layout designed for driving. Large icons, clear menus and voice control help you access key features quickly through your KENWOOD touchscreen stereo.
A smart upgrade for older vehicles
Adding an Android Auto head unit is a practical way to modernise an older car, van, campervan and motorhome. You get modern navigation, calls, messages and entertainment without replacing the vehicle.
Works with KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers
A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise on the best Android Auto stereo for your vehicle. They can also help retain key features such as steering wheel controls, reversing cameras, parking sensors and other vehicle functions where compatible.
Improved driving convenience
Android Auto brings your phone, apps and car stereo together in one easy system. You get better control of navigation, communication and entertainment from one central touchscreen.
Wired vs Wireless Android Auto
Wired Android Auto connects your compatible Android phone to the stereo using a USB cable. It gives a stable connection and charges your phone while you drive.
Wireless Android Auto connects automatically once your phone has been paired. It keeps the dashboard cleaner and removes the need to plug in your phone for everyday journeys.
Many KENWOOD multimedia systems support both wireless and wired Android Auto, giving drivers the choice between convenience and direct USB charging.
KENWOOD Android Auto Car Stereo Upgrades With Pro Install Support
Choose a KENWOOD wireless and wired Android Auto system for trusted performance, advanced features and vehicle-specific integration, backed by our experienced Pro Install Dealer network who know your vehicle inside and out.
They provide expert advice on the best system for your car, van, campervan or motorhome, professional installation and ongoing support, with the added confidence of a 3-year warranty when supplied and fitted by an approved KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer.
DMX9724XDS
Wireless & Wired Android Auto
10.1” HD floating screen with wireless and wired Android Auto, plus Apple CarPlay, delivering a sleek OEM-style fit while retaining factory vehicle settings, rear view camera and steering wheel controls with an additional compatible interface wiring kit. Also supports up to three additional cameras and HDMI input.
Popular Vehicles: VW Transporter & Crafter, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Renault Trafic, Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer and Hymer. Suitable for larger vehicles like motorhomes, vans, campervans, HGVs & trucks.
DMX-F920DS
Wireless & Wired Android Auto
9.0” HD floating touchscreen with wireless and wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ radio and Bluetooth, designed for modern and older cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. Its 1-DIN chassis design supports installation in a wide range of vehicles while retaining steering wheel controls and a reversing camera with a compatible integration wiring kit.
Popular Vehicles: Land Rover Defender & Discovery, Jeep Wrangler, Mitsubishi L200, VW Transporters, Crafter, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Renault Trafic, Nissan Navara, Fiat Ducato & Peugeot Boxer.
DMX8021DABS
Wireless & Wired Android Auto
One of our most popular wireless and wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Double DIN touchscreen car stereo upgrades. Featuring a 7” capacitive touchscreen, DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, HDMI input, four camera inputs and advanced audio tuning. A great upgrade for modern and older cars, vans, trucks and HGVs with connected technology.
Popular Vehicles: Audi R8 & TT, Ford Fiesta, Land Rover Defender, Mercedes CLK, SLK & Sprinter, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Qashqai, Porsche 911, Toyota Hilux and VW Crafter, Golf, Passat & Transporter.
DMX80AXS
Wireless & Wired Android Auto
Designed for vehicle-specific installation kits across hundreds of popular car brands, via our Pro Install Dealers. Its 9.0” touchscreen supports wireless and wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with FM radio, rear camera input, 13-band EQ and Digital Time Alignment for improved sound quality.
Popular Manufacturers: Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Citroën, Peugeot, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Nissan, Renault, SEAT, Škoda, Toyota & Volkswagen.
DMX7525DABS
Wireless & Wired Android Auto
A compact 6.8” HD touchscreen upgrade with wireless and wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ radio, Bluetooth and smartphone mirroring. A strong choice for drivers who want a sharp display, modern connectivity, camera support and improved sound control in a wide range of cars, vans and campervans.
Popular Vehicles: Ford Fiesta & Transit, Honda Civic, Mercedes SLK & Sprinter, Nissan Qashqai, Suzuki Jimny, Vauxhall Astra & Corsa, VW Golf & Transporter, and older cars.
DMX6523DABS
Wireless & Wired Android Auto
A cost-effective 6.8” touchscreen system and the first model in the KENWOOD range with wireless and wired Android Auto. It also includes Apple CarPlay, DAB+ radio, Bluetooth, wireless smartphone mirroring, rear camera input and advanced sound tuning, making it a smart upgrade for older vehicles.
Popular Vehicles: Audi TT, BMW & Mini, Fiat 500, Ford Focus, Galaxy & Transit, Hyundai i10, KIA Sportage, Mazda MX5, Nissan, Renault Captur & Trafic, Vauxhall Corsa, VW Golf, Polo.
DMX5023DABS
Wired Android Auto
A budget-friendly 6.8” touchscreen upgrade with wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ radio and Bluetooth, designed for cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. Features include 13-band EQ, Digital Time Alignment, rear camera input with parking guidelines, front, rear and sub pre-outs, giving improved connectivity, entertainment and sound quality.
Popular Vehicles: Audi TT, BMW & Mini, Fiat 500, Ford Focus, Galaxy & Transit, Hyundai i10, KIA Sportage, Mazda MX5, Nissan, Renault Captur & Trafic, Vauxhall Corsa, VW Golf, Polo.
3-Year Extended Warranty
Available via a Pro Install Dealer only
Choose a KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer for expert advice, professional vehicle-specific installation and clean OEM-style integration of features including steering wheel controls, reversing cameras, parking sensors and factory vehicle settings with a compatible interface wiring kit. Approved dealers help ensure your Android Auto and Apple CarPlay system works correctly with your vehicle while delivering a high-quality finish and reliable everyday performance. Systems supplied and fitted by an approved KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer also include a 3-year warranty for added confidence and peace of mind.
Pro Install Dealers
Experts who know your vehicle
Great service from people who know your vehicle. KENWOOD Pro Install Dealers provide expert advice and vehicle-specific installation solutions for cars, vans, campervans and motorhomes. With years of experience, they deliver clean OEM-style integration, reliable fitting and professional support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay upgrades. Many installations retain factory features including steering wheel controls, reversing cameras, parking sensors and vehicle settings, helping your new system look and work like factory equipment while improving navigation, music, calls and everyday driving.
Android Auto FAQs
Find answers to some of the most common questions about Android Auto, Wireless Android Auto and upgrading your vehicle with a KENWOOD touchscreen multimedia system. Learn more about compatibility, installation, steering wheel control retention, reversing cameras, campervan upgrades, smartphone connectivity and the features available across the KENWOOD range of Wireless and Wired Android Auto stereos.
- · What is Android Auto?
Android Auto is a smart in-car system that brings key Android phone features to your vehicle’s touchscreen. With a compatible KENWOOD Android Auto stereo, you can access navigation, calls, messages, music and Google Assistant in a cleaner display designed for driving.
- · What does Android Auto do?
Android Auto lets you use compatible apps from your Android phone through your car stereo screen. You can use Google Maps or Waze for navigation, make calls, send and receive messages, listen to music, play podcasts and use voice control.
- · Do I need an Android phone to use Android Auto?
Yes. Android Auto works with compatible Android smartphones. You will also need a compatible Android Auto head unit, such as a KENWOOD multimedia system, and either a USB cable or wireless connection depending on the model.
- · Does Android Auto work wirelessly?
Yes. Wireless Android Auto is available on selected KENWOOD multimedia systems. Once your compatible Android phone has been paired, it can connect without a USB cable, giving you a cleaner dashboard and quicker access for everyday journeys.
KENWOOD Wireless Android Auto systems include:
- DMX9724XDS - 10.1" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX-F920DS - 9.0" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX8021DABS - 7.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX80AXS - 9.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, FM System
- DMX7525DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX6523DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
These touchscreen car stereos are designed for cars, vans, trucks, HGVs, campervans and motorhomes, bringing modern smartphone connectivity and advanced multimedia features to older vehicles.
- · What KENWOOD systems have Wireless Android Auto?
KENWOOD Wireless Android Auto systems include:
- DMX9724XDS - 10.1" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX-F920DS - 9.0" Floating HD Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX8021DABS - 7.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX80AXS - 9.0" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, FM System
- DMX7525DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
- DMX6523DABS - 6.8" Capacitive Touchscreen Wireless and Wired Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, DAB+ System
These touchscreen car stereos are designed for cars, vans, trucks, HGVs, campervans and motorhomes, bringing modern smartphone connectivity and advanced multimedia features to older vehicles.
- · Can I use Android Auto with a USB cable?
Yes. Wired Android Auto connects your compatible Android phone to your KENWOOD stereo using a USB cable. This gives a stable connection and charges your phone while you drive.
- · Can I charge my Android smartphone wirelessly?
Yes. If your vehicle has a built-in wireless charging pad, you can use Wireless Android Auto and charge your compatible Android phone wirelessly at the same time. If your vehicle does not have wireless charging, you can connect your Android phone by USB to charge it while using wired Android Auto.
- · What Apps work with Android Auto?
Android Auto supports a wide range of compatible apps, including navigation, music, podcast, audiobook and messaging apps. Popular examples include Google Maps, Waze, Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, WhatsApp and Audible, depending on phone, app and regional compatibility. Google’s Android platform also highlights connectivity across Google apps and services.
- · Can I use Google Maps with Android Auto?
Yes. Google Maps works with Android Auto and lets you view route guidance on your KENWOOD touchscreen. You can use it for directions, live traffic information, route changes and voice-guided navigation.
- · Can I use Waze with Android Auto?
Yes. Waze is available through Android Auto on compatible phones and stereos. It is useful for live traffic updates, route planning, speed alerts and community-based road information.
- · Does Android Auto use mobile data?
Yes, many Android Auto features use mobile data. Navigation, live traffic, music streaming, messaging and voice search usually need a mobile data connection. Offline music and downloaded maps may reduce data use where supported by the app.
- · Is Android Auto safer than using a phone?
Android Auto gives you a simpler way to use navigation, calls, messages and audio through your vehicle’s touchscreen and voice control. You must still stay in control of the vehicle at all times. In the UK, you can receive penalty points and a fine if you hold and use a phone while driving or riding.
- · Can I keep steering wheel controls?
Yes, in many vehicles. A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise which steering wheel control interface is required for your vehicle. Compatibility depends on the vehicle, stereo model and fitting kit.
A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise which steering wheel control interface is required for your make, model and year of vehicle. Many installations also retain original vehicle features, including parking sensors, reversing cameras and climate control displays for a clean OEM-style integration.
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- · Can I retain original vehicle features?
Yes, many installations can retain factory features such as steering wheel controls, reversing cameras, parking sensors, climate control displays and vehicle settings. A compatible interface wiring kit may be required, and availability depends on the vehicle.
A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise which vehicle-specific fitting kits, interfaces and integration modules are required for your make, model and year. Professional installation helps ensure a clean OEM-style finish while maintaining important factory vehicle functions and driver convenience features.
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- · Does Android Auto work in campervans and motorhomes?
Yes. Android Auto is a popular upgrade for campervans and motorhomes. It gives drivers easy access to navigation, calls, music and messages on a larger touchscreen, with selected KENWOOD systems also supporting camera inputs for improved visibility.
KENWOOD campervan multimedia systems also support features including DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth, reversing camera integration and multiple camera inputs, which are especially useful for larger vehicles. Selected models also support the Sygic navigation app designed for campervans and motorhomes, helping drivers avoid unsuitable roads, low bridges and restricted routes. A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can advise on the best Android Auto system and installation solution for your campervan or motorhome.
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- · What is the best Android Auto stereo?
The best Android Auto stereo depends on your vehicle, screen size preference, camera requirements, audio needs and budget. KENWOOD offers a range of wired and wireless Android Auto systems, from cost-effective 6.8” touchscreen models to larger floating screen systems for vans, campervans and motorhomes.
A KENWOOD Pro Install Dealer can help recommend the best Android Auto stereo based on your make, model and year of vehicle, along with your budget and feature requirements. They can also advise on fitting kits, vehicle integration, camera compatibility and OEM-style installation solutions for the best overall result.
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