Samsung Auto is the latest Android Auto alternative for China

While drivers around the world enjoy the increasing connectivity of their electric cars, Samsung has quietly rolled out its own car connectivity suite, Samsung Auto, as but with a catch – it's only available in China. Since China doesn't get Android Auto a number of makers have delivered similar alternatives to fill the gap.

Samsung Auto is designed to work with vehicles in China using Baidu CareLife+ or ICCOA Car Link. These are specific connectivity standards for the Chinese automotive market, supporting both wired and wireless connections.

Unfortunately, this reliance on regional standards means that without significant changes to vehicle software in other parts of the world, Samsung Auto will remain exclusive to Chinese drivers. The system even includes a built-in list of compatible vehicles, all of which are models specifically sold within China, including localized versions of well-known brands like Audi and BMW.

The user interface of Samsung Auto appears similar to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It features a central dashboard displaying essential information, such as navigation and music controls, along with customizable widgets. For quick access while on the road, drivers can pin up to four frequently used applications to a sidebar. Samsung's own voice assistant, Bixby, is integrated as the default voice control system, allowing for hands-free operation of various functions.

Samsung Auto's "Quick navigation" feature allows for a seamless transition between a driver's smartphone and the car's infotainment system. It is possible to start navigating to a destination on the phone and then have the directions seamlessly transfer to the car's display once connected.

The system also handles incoming messages containing addresses. If a message with a location arrives while driving, a notification pops up, allowing you to jump directly into navigation with a single tap. The address recognition feature enables users to tap on a floating shortcut, which then sends the navigation directly to the car's screen. This last feature currently only supports specific Chinese applications.

Via