Home / Audio / Head Units / MirrorLink vs Android Auto vs Apple Carplay Smartphone Apps

MirrorLink vs Android Auto vs Apple Carplay Smartphone Apps

420 Views

So, what is the difference between the three: Mirrorlink vs Android Auto vs Apple Carplay? We’ll compare and discuss all the necessary information about these technologies for your car infotainment system here and help you decide which one is suitable for your car. Let’s find out!

As we all know, the car is becoming more and more a part of our daily lives. We use it to commute to work, take kids to school, and even go on vacation. With all our time in the cars, it’s no wonder we’re looking for ways to make the experience more enjoyable.

But if we want to check out our mobile phones or look at the car screen, we might lose focus on the road, which is dangerous. So modern drivers are focusing on a system that integrates smartphones into the car’s infotainment system.

As smartphone technology continues to advance, so do the options for how to connect them to your car’s infotainment screen. Three of the most popular methods are Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.

Table of Contents Show

Run Android Auto And Its Smartphone Applications

Google launched Android Auto, which is based on the Android operating system. While MirrorLink is developed by Car Connectivity Consortium(CCC) and is based on Nokia Symbian OS phones.

Android Auto is Google’s effort to make smartphone apps smarter and safer in the car. The in-car infotainment system was first announced back in Google I/O 2014. It’s a Google-backed software interface that allows you to use compatible apps on your phone via their in-dash car radio.

Google maps, google news, and other third-party apps are compatible with Android Auto. Google’s android auto is a great way to get your smartphone apps onto your car’s infotainment system, but it’s not perfect. It’s a direct competitor of Apple Carplay and MirrorLink.

You can easily connect any android phone from different brands such as HTC, Sony, Samsung, Xiaomi, etc. Even though you can use your phone while driving, it is always recommended to connect your phone to your car stereo via your car’s USB port or Bluetooth.

This way, you can use the touchscreen option, which is driver-friendly. Google has recently removed the ability to use Android 12 with this system. You will need Android 6.0 or newer to be able to run Android Auto.

Work With MirrorLink Apps And Its Open Source System

Car buyers want options, and that’s exactly what MirrorLink gives them. This technology, developed by the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC), allows drivers to use their mobile devices to control car models from a variety of car manufacturers.

MirrorLink turns phones into automotive application platforms. It was built on the leading role that Nokia Symbian OS phones have played in bringing smartphone features and apps into the hands of drivers. With the MirrorLink option, you can use your phone safely while driving.

How can you know if your phone is compatible with MirrorLink? Phone makers that have integrated into their products and that support MirrorLink include HTC, LG, Sony, Xiaomi, and Samsung. It was developed by Nokia in 2011.

If you’re looking for a more straightforward way to mirror your phone screen, MirrorLink might be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision of which smartphone integration to choose depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Use Apple CarPlay and Their Smartphone Integration

Obviously, if you have an iPhone, then this is your best option. When you buy a new car that comes with CarPlay, you will be able to use apps like Apple Maps, Spotify, Youtube, and more. You can use this plug and play technology as long as you have an iPhone 5 or newer.

It seems that Apple CarPlay may replace MirrorLink because Apple CarPlay is gaining traction among carmakers. CarPlay allows drivers to control their iPhones using the vehicle’s built-in display and controls, giving users access to Siri, Maps, Phone, Messages, Music, Photos, and various third-party apps.

Many automakers are now supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, including Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai, Ford Motor Company, VW Group, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), etc. So it seems likely that MirrorLink will eventually be replaced by either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Android Auto vs MirrorLink: Battle To Connect Your Smartphone Via Bluetooth or Cable

There are a few different options available for car display systems, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. The most popular choices are MirrorLink, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.

Additionally, all of these have pros and cons. As digital dashboard has become an integral part of car driving, the first thing car buyers should decide which one they should need in their car.

If you’re an iPhone user, you’ll need to install aftermarket head units to use Android Auto. Android Auto is explicitly designed for the android smartphone, so it’s not compatible with the iOS device.

However, it does offer a substantial selection of features and is very user-friendly. For a comprehensive way to link your android device or smartphone to your car, Android Auto is a great option.

MirrorLink technology is another great way for phone mirroring, and it has the advantage of being compatible with Android smartphones and iOS devices. However, it doesn’t offer as many features as Android Auto, and some users find it more challenging.

How does MirrorLink work? Using MirrorLink To Mirror Your Phone Screen

Using MirrorLink is quite simple, actually. All you have to do is to download the MirrorLink mobile app from the google play store. To maximize the use of this feature, simply connect to the onboard system using a USB cable. More so, you can use it via by activating a specific function on the developer’s settings of your phone.

It works with many car technologies, such as IP, RTP, USB, Wi-Fi, and more. You can also install other apps to use voice commands and voice control features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both closed proprietary systems that have their own private built-in software.

On the contrary, MirrorLink is an open-source system that is suitable for those who are seeking future development of car-based applications. Hence, for those who would like to get a custom app developed, there is a certification process that needs to be completed.

One of the best protocols that this system has is the ability to use vehicle data in real-time. You can track your car via apps like Glympse, which can be a great feature for those who would like to keep their family members safe by knowing their locations in real-time.

What Cars Are Compatible With MirrorLink?

Many car head units are now compatible with MirrorLink including Toyota, Hyundai, Ford, VW Group, General Motors, Kia, DS Automobiles, Skoda, and more.

Unfortunately, this system is not compatible with every car integration platform. If you’re looking to buy a new car, check if it’s compatible before making the purchase.

Last Updated on: January 4, 2023

Hi, my name is John Snow and I am a car lover. With two decades under my belt fixing and driving cars, I'm always on the hunt for fresh, cutting-edge methods to give my ride a performance boost. Driven by my zeal to decode car problems, I'm on a mission to equip vehicle owners with accurate and handy tips. By doing so, they can fix their rides while saving both time and cash.

By John Snow