The Biggest Secret of Android Auto Is the Programmable Shortcut.
Android Auto offers a wide range of visual customization options. But Android Auto’s capabilities extend beyond aesthetics and the apps that appear when you turn on your car. There’s a hidden shortcut switch that can be activated to perform an in-car action programmed on your phone. Regardless of what car you drive, as long as Android Auto is installed, the shortcut will be available.
This is a custom Assistant shortcut, and it’s been part of Android Auto since early 2021. Now that Gemini is gradually replacing the legacy Google Assistant in Android Auto, it’s worth revisiting this feature. Gemini’s natural language processing allows it to handle more complex commands, so you don’t just have to program a routine command you could say out loud. The custom Assistant shortcut is labeled a “secret” feature because it’s hidden behind a basic text label in the Android Auto settings menu. I didn’t even think to look for it until I stumbled upon this trick on an Android blog, but once you find it, setting it up only takes a minute.
There are several ways to set up a custom Assistant shortcut. For example, if you rely on the latest podcast episode to while away your morning commute, you could set up a shortcut to play the latest episode from an app that works well with Gemini, like Spotify or YouTube Music. I prefer to use a custom Assistant shortcut for simpler actions: finding the nearest branded gas station, no matter where I am on the road. I programmed a shortcut with the command “Find the nearest [branded gas station].” This launches a route to the gas station I specified, where I can count on adequate lighting and decent restrooms. It’s easier than digging through the Google Maps app on the Android Auto screen, then finding a submenu with options showing gas stations, and then scrolling through all options within a five-mile radius after selecting one. This shortcut option is also very useful when traveling, especially solo.
If you’re interested in home automation, this method becomes even more effective. You can program a phrase in Google Home Routine that triggers a chain reaction of actions. Imagine a scenario that prepares for your arrival by opening the garage door, disarming the security system, and turning on the lights even before you enter the driveway.
How to create a custom assistant shortcut in Android Auto
You don’t have to be in the car to set up a custom Assistant action. On your phone, go to Android Auto settings , then scroll down and tap “Customize Launcher.” Under the main heading, tap the small text ” Add shortcut to launcher.” Select your Assistant action.
In this case, the most reliable option is to type a specific command. For example, “Go to the home page” or “Play the latest episode of [podcast name] on [media player].”
Test your custom assistant shortcut.
Before your trip, you can test the shortcut in your car. You’ll be able to test the command after connecting your phone to the car. Your new shortcut will appear in your app list as a standard app icon. A small Gemini star will appear in the corner to distinguish it from standard apps (the old Assistant icon may still appear in your phone’s settings).
The “Test Command” button is located on the same page where you set up your custom assistant shortcut. Click it, and you’ll know your shortcut is working if the signature rainbow Gemini glow flashes at the bottom of the screen. If not, try changing the wording of the command and continue testing until it works.
Important information about setting up an Assistant shortcut in Android Auto
These actions are linked to your Google account on your phone, so if you get into another car with Android Auto, the button will follow you on the display. Keep in mind that Gemini requires a stable internet connection to process these requests. If you’re driving through a cellular dead zone, the shortcut may freeze, which can be annoying while driving. If the shortcut is difficult to find in the app list, remember that you can return to the “Launcher Customization” menu in your phone’s settings and reorder the shortcuts so they appear at the top of the list.