Many drivers with slightly older cars rely on wireless devices like the AA Wireless Two Plus and the Twelve South AirFly Drive to access Android Auto, and all of the apps that make driving easier. Although wireless often feels like the latest and greatest choice, there are compelling reasons drivers may want to use a more traditional wired connection for Android Auto.
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The Statik MagStack cable has a magnetic design that prevents tangles and is a personal favorite of mine and ZDNET gadget reviewer Adrian King…
Bottom Line
This braided USB cable from Anker is built to avoid tangles or tearing. It comes in three colors and two length options so that you can find a…
Bottom Line
Want something coiled for Android Auto or CarPlay? This USB option from Chubbycable might be for you (and your ride). ZDNET reviewer Adrian Ki…
ZDNET Senior Contributing Editor Kerry Wan is a recent convert to wired Android Auto connections, and says he’s found the wired option offers better audio streaming quality, reduced overheating, and improved latency.
Also: 4 wireless Android Auto adapters we recommend (and they’re cheap)
What to know about switching to a wired Android Auto connection
There are a few important things to know about using a wired connection for Android Auto, including what can make or break your experience. For one, Android Auto now requires your device to run Android 11 or newer. You must have an active data plan on your device, and Android Auto must be supported by a compatible car. (To find out if your car or stereo is compatible with Android Auto, check Google’s hub page. For more information about your car’s compatibility with Android Auto on your car display, contact your vehicle manufacturer.)
Also: Avoid these 5 Android Auto mistakes
Google also recommends a quality USB cable. The USB cable you use for a wired Android Auto setup is nearly as important as the phone itself: It’s important to find a USB cable that supports data transfer and syncing — not just standard charging.
These cords are typically a bit more expensive, and brands typically clearly state what their cords can and can’t do in their product listings. Wan says he prefers nylon cables, as he finds them less likely to break when tucked away. Whatever your preference, it’s important to look for cables from reputable, well-known brands that explicitly state the particular product supports data transfer.
Also: Gemini on Android Auto can access my photos, emails, and calendar
Some Redditors said they have reused phone cords from older Android devices, but if you need a new one, here are three we’d recommend.
Best USB cords for Android Auto
The Statik MagStack cable has a magnetic design that prevents tangles and is a personal favorite of mine and ZDNET gadget reviewer Adrian Kingsley-Hughes. This cable supports both charging and data transfer, making it compatible with Android Auto and CarPlay. It features 480 Mbps data transfer, 24 pins, and a max voltage of 5. This cable also comes in other USB configurations for your vehicle or another space, like your home office.
Also: This is the only charging cable you’ll ever need to avoid a tangling mess (and it’s cheap)
This braided USB cable from Anker is built to avoid tangles or tearing. It comes in three colors and two length options so that you can find a fit for your vehicle. Most importantly, it supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, costs under $20, and has a 4.6/5 rating from 5,000 users.
When you look at the product specs, you’ll find it has a data transfer rate of 480 gigabits per second, features 28 pins, and supports a maximum of 5 volts of direct current. It’s also marketed as a “CarPlay” cable, and it obviously charges your device, too.
I’m a huge fan of many Anker accessories, including their braided cables for their durability and ease of keeping tidy, so I’d vouch for this one given brand name and reviews alone.
Want something coiled for Android Auto or CarPlay? This USB option from Chubbycable might be for you (and your ride). ZDNET reviewer Adrian Kingsley-Hughes says he likes Chubbycable accessories for their bright looks and reliable connection, and this one is perfect for on-the-go use.
This Chubbycable features 240W ultra-fast charging for USB-C to USB-C devices and up to 60W charging for USB-A to USB-C devices. It also supports 480 Mbps data transfer for reliable charging and syncing. It’s designed for stable CarPlay and Android Auto data connectivity for navigation, music streaming, hands-free calls, and uninterrupted syncing while driving, but it does not support Android Auto fast charging. It also extends up to six feet and helps keep your cord tangle-free thanks to its coiled construction.
