The image displays the infotainment screen of a car equipped with Google built-in

That’s a sleek setup. Google built-in (technically “Google Automotive Services”) is a big step up from standard phone mirroring like Android Auto because the OS is actually baked into the car’s hardware.

Since your car is equipped with this, here is a quick breakdown of what you can do directly from that screen without even taking your phone out of your pocket:

1. The “Big Three” Apps

• Native Google Maps: This is the star of the show. Because it’s integrated with the car, it can see your battery level (EV) or fuel range and automatically suggest charging or gas stations along your route if you won’t make it to your destination.

• Google Assistant (Now Gemini): As of early 2026, most Google built-in systems are being upgraded to Gemini. You can talk to it naturally—instead of “set temperature to 70,” you can say, “Hey Google, I’m freezing,” and it will adjust the climate and seat heaters.

   

• Google Play Store: You can download automotive-specific versions of Spotify, YouTube, Waze, and even games directly to the head unit.

2. Pro-Tips for Your System

• Offline Maps: Even if you lose cell service in a dead zone, the system can download maps in the background so your navigation doesn’t cut out.

• Deep Integration: Unlike your phone, this screen can control the car’s physical hardware. You can ask the Assistant to change the fan speed, check your tire pressure, or even program how high your power liftgate opens.

• Personalization: If you sign in with your Google account, your “Home” and “Work” favorites from your phone will automatically appear on the car screen.

3. A Quick Way to Get Started

If you haven’t already, check the App Tray (usually a grid icon on the side or bottom). You can press and hold icons to rearrange them, just like a smartphone, to keep your most-used apps (like Maps or Music) within easy reach of the driver’s seat.

One helpful tip: If the screen ever feels laggy or an app freezes, you can usually reboot the system by holding down the “End Call” button on the steering wheel or the physical “Home” button for about 20 seconds.