Engadget test finds Google Maps easier to use on Android Auto than on Apple CarPlay
An Engadget writer compared Google Maps on Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the same car. Android Auto proved easier for voice control, comparing results, map handling and electric-vehicle trip planning.
Husain Parvez of the technology site Engadget compared how the Google Maps navigation app works on two car-connection systems: Google's Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. He ran both tests in the same car, a 2025 Kia Sonet, on the same infotainment screen. In his experience, Android Auto is easier for several everyday tasks, although the basic features are similar on both.
Both systems offered a speedometer, lane guidance, incident reporting, alternative-route suggestions and settings to avoid tolls, highways or ferries. The differences became clearer once he used the app for more than basic navigation.
Gemini voice assistant
The author says Google's AI assistant Gemini can be started on Android Auto without touching the screen. On CarPlay, a Gemini button appeared late in testing, but it could not be summoned hands-free, and Google's help page still said Gemini was unavailable for CarPlay at the time. Route changes, such as finding a fuel stop or a pharmacy along the way, were quicker on Android Auto. Gemini did sometimes hang on a loading screen, and once it failed to connect.
Search, map and suggestions
Android Auto showed search results with ratings and the extra time each stop would add. CarPlay showed results one at a time, with Previous and Next buttons. Android Auto also supported pinch-to-zoom, while CarPlay required a separate map-control mode. On the home screen, Android Auto immediately showed a Home shortcut with a live ETA and distance, plus recently visited places. It also explained its fuel-efficient route better, marking the estimated fuel savings. One CarPlay advantage was easy access to Automatic, Day and Night color-scheme controls.
Electric-vehicle planning
On supported electric vehicles in the US, Google Maps on Android Auto can estimate battery consumption using the vehicle's characteristics, traffic, road elevation and weather. It can suggest charging stops and include charging time in the ETA. The rollout covers more than 350 EV models from over 15 brands in the US. Google's announcement did not mention a comparable CarPlay rollout.
