Most Android Auto apps are useless, but these 4 are essential

Most Android Auto apps are useless, but these 4 are essential Credit: Patrick Campanale / How-To Geek By  Cory Gunther Published May 30, 2026, 10:15 AM EDT Cory Gunther is a senior author and Newsletter Editor at Valnet, covering cutting-edge tech, Android, and more for How-To Geek. He's covered Android, cars, and technology for over a decade. When he's not reviewing the latest gadget, you can find him off-roading in his Toyota truck, fixing said truck, or doing something outdoors with friends and family. He's covered CES, SEMA, and MWC and reviewed countless phones, TVs, speakers, EVs, e-bikes, and more. Before Valnet, Cory worked for GottaBeMobile . His writing has also appeared on SlashGear , InputMag , and AndroidCentral. He's written over 9,000 articles. Sign in to your How-To Geek account Add Us On follow Follow followed Followed Like Like Thread Log in Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents: Try something different: Show me the facts Explain it like I’m 5 Give me a lighthearted recap Android Auto is one of the most convenient features on most modern cars, even if it's a bit underused. It's just a pared-down and limited version of Android, which makes most apps pretty useless. However, there are several essential apps you'll actually love using, and I'm not talking about Google Maps or your favorite music player. By default, most drivers use Google Maps even though there are countless solid alternatives . Then everyone likely has YouTube Music, Spotify, or a similar app on the home screen. But Android Auto actually supports more apps than you think . Here are a few lesser-known apps that I think are essential. Get Fuelio Save money on gas As we all know, gas is pretty expensive these days. And even when prices aren't fluctuating and are higher than ever, I'm always looking for the best gas deal. Fuelio is an amazing app that pulls up a map of nearby gas stations and their current prices. It's great for emergencies when you realize you're