Android Auto vs Apple CarPlay: where the features differ
Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay let drivers use phone apps in the car, but Google's system currently offers deeper customization and a stronger AI assistant. Apple is working to close the gap with CarPlay Ultra and an updated Siri.
Over the past decade, most automakers have adopted support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers to use their phone's apps and services through the car's display. While both systems mirror the experience of their respective phones, several notable differences separate them.
Customization
Android Auto uses a multi-window layout, letting drivers choose where maps, media playback and widgets appear on screen and how much space each takes up. CarPlay largely focuses on one app at a time, though Apple does allow users to rearrange the app grid and offers a split-screen view for maps and music. However, CarPlay wallpaper options are limited to a set of stock images, while Android Auto lets users apply their phone's own background.
Options for power users
Android Auto includes a hidden developer settings menu that allows deeper changes to the system, including permission to install apps from unknown sources — meaning users aren't limited to apps available on the Google Play Store. The developer menu also allows manual changes to video resolution, forcing day or night mode, and toggling wireless connectivity. Apple CarPlay offers no equivalent menu, and apps compatible with CarPlay must meet stricter Apple guidelines.
AI assistant in the car
Google's Gemini AI is reportedly better at understanding complex, natural-language requests than the current version of Siri. In one comparison, when asked to find the nearest rest stop, Siri in the iOS 27 beta reportedly opened the calendar app instead, while Gemini responded appropriately to the context of the request. Apple is even using Gemini technology to help power its newer Siri. Since iOS 27 is still in testing and won't be finalized until fall, a full assessment of Siri's improved capabilities isn't yet possible.
Apple is also developing a next-generation system called CarPlay Ultra, currently being tested by Aston Martin and reportedly Tesla, which could narrow the gap between the two platforms in the future. For now, though, Android Auto offers more app options, stronger AI integration and greater customization for power users.
