My favorite Android Auto find is these hidden shortcuts that are highly customizable

2026-04-10 · Source: News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Internet of Things (IoT) & Connected Devices · Depth: Novice, quick

Summary

Android Auto offers a Custom Assistant shortcut, an underutilized feature that allows users to automate multiple actions from their car. This shortcut, which takes only about a minute to set up, enables the creation of preset actions and automations for various phone functions. With the recent integration of Google Gemini, the Custom Assistant becomes even more capable of handling complex commands through easily accessible button-triggered shortcuts. Examples include navigating to specific locations, playing podcasts, sending messages, or initiating home automation routines like adjusting HVAC settings, turning off lights, or starting a robot vacuum. These shortcuts are linked to the user's Google account, ensuring availability across different Android Auto-enabled vehicles, though they do require a cellular signal to function.

Key takeaway

For Android Auto users seeking to streamline their in-car experience, leveraging the Custom Assistant shortcut is a simple yet powerful way to automate daily tasks. You can set up personalized commands to control navigation, media, messaging, and even smart home devices with a single tap. Integrate Google Gemini for more complex voice commands, enhancing convenience and safety by minimizing manual phone interaction while driving.

Key insights

Android Auto's Custom Assistant enables quick, personalized automation of phone and smart home tasks while driving.

Principles

• Automate routine tasks for convenience.
• Personalize in-car experience with custom commands.

Method

Access Android Auto settings, select "Customize launcher," then "Add a shortcut," choose "Assistant action," and input a custom command. The shortcut appears as an app icon.

In practice

• Create a "leaving for work" routine.
• Set up navigation to frequent destinations.
• Control smart home devices from your car.

Topics

• Android Auto
• Custom Assistant Shortcut
• Google Gemini Integration
• In-Car Automation
• Smart Home Control

Best for: General Interest

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by News and Advice on the World's Latest Innovations | ZDNET.