Android Auto is a great tool for hands-free navigation and media control while driving, but it doesn’t offer the same level of customization as Android phones and tablets. For example, the layout of the interface is generally locked in. However, you might be surprised to know that you can actually change the location of the taskbar in Android Auto.
While the settings aren’t very clear on how to do this, I can guide you through the process. Let’s explore how you can change the location of the taskbar, depending on the display size and aspect ratio of your Android Auto setup.
Understanding the Default Taskbar Location
The “default” taskbar location in Android Auto can vary based on several factors, including the device you’re using and the aspect ratio of your display. For some users, the taskbar might appear at the bottom of the screen, while for others, it may be located along the side. This variability is not very well documented, so it can be a bit confusing if you’re trying to figure out why the layout differs from device to device.
The key to customizing the taskbar location lies in a setting called **”Quick Controls.”** This setting, which appears unrelated at first glance, actually determines where the taskbar will be located.
How “Quick Controls” Affect the Taskbar Location
If you’ve ever noticed the taskbar at the bottom of your Android Auto display, chances are it’s because the “Quick Controls” are enabled. These controls offer a set of shortcuts—such as media controls for apps like Spotify—that appear horizontally across the bottom of the screen. When the Quick Controls are active, the taskbar stays at the bottom to accommodate them.
On the other hand, if the Quick Controls are disabled, the taskbar will move to the side of the screen. This can be useful if you prefer having the taskbar closer to your hand while driving, especially if you often use Android Auto in split-screen mode to simultaneously display navigation and media apps like Google Maps and Spotify.
How to Change the Taskbar Location in Android Auto
To customize the location of the taskbar in Android Auto, you’ll need to access the “Settings” menu on your Android Auto display. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open Settings: Start by opening the “Settings” menu on your Android Auto display. This can usually be done by tapping the gear icon.
2. Locate “Quick Controls for Apps”: Look for the option labeled “Show Quick Controls for Apps.” This setting is the key to changing the taskbar location.
3. Toggle the Setting:
Enable Quick Controls: If you want the taskbar to appear at the “bottom” of the screen, toggle the switch “On”. This setting will display the Quick Controls horizontally across the bottom, forcing the taskbar to remain there.
Disable Quick Controls: If you prefer the taskbar on the side of the screen, toggle the switch Off. This removes the horizontal Quick Controls and relocates the taskbar to the side.
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Pros and Cons of Each Taskbar Location
Depending on your usage habits and preferences, you might find one taskbar location more convenient than the other. Here are some pros and cons of each setting:
– Bottom Taskbar (Quick Controls Enabled)
Pros:
– Provides easy access to media controls without having to leave the current app.
– Allows for full-screen use of an app, like Google Maps, while still controlling media playback.
– Cons:
– May require reaching further if your screen is positioned higher or farther away.
– The bottom taskbar might feel less intuitive for those used to having controls at the side.
– Side Taskbar (Quick Controls Disabled)
– Pros:
– Closer to your hand, making it easier to reach while driving.
– Allows a larger area for apps that use split-screen mode, which can improve multitasking.
– Cons:
– No Quick Controls for media apps, meaning you have to switch apps to adjust volume, skip tracks, or pause playback.
– May not be ideal for users who rely heavily on full-screen apps with on-screen controls.
Tips for Making the Most of the Taskbar Customization
– Use Split-Screen Mode: If you frequently use Google Maps or another navigation app alongside a media app like Spotify, try using split-screen mode. This mode allows you to view and interact with both apps simultaneously, minimizing the need for Quick Controls.
– Experiment with Both Settings: Don’t be afraid to toggle the “Quick Controls for Apps” setting on and off to see which taskbar location works best for you. This can depend on the size of your Android Auto display, your driving position, and how you use your apps while driving.
– Prioritize Safety: Remember that safety should always come first. Choose the taskbar location that minimizes distractions and allows you to keep your focus on the road.
Final Thoughts
While Android Auto doesn’t offer the extensive customization options found on Android phones or tablets, the ability to change the taskbar location is a handy feature that many users might not be aware of. Depending on your preferences, you can keep the Quick Controls enabled for easy media management or disable them to move the taskbar to a more convenient location on the side of your screen.
Personally, I prefer having the taskbar on the side, closer to my hands on the steering wheel. I almost always use Google Maps and Spotify in split-screen mode, so I don’t miss the Quick Controls much. However, every driver has different preferences, so experiment and find the setup that works best for you. With a little bit of customization, you can make Android Auto a more comfortable and efficient tool for your driving needs.