Android Auto Development Guide

This guide documents the steps to set up the development environment for Android Auto.

https://developer.android.com/training/cars/testing/dhu

Prerequisites

Java JDK and Android SDK components (Android Studio)

./sdkmanager --sdk_root=android_sdk "platform-tools" "platforms;android-35" "build-tools;35.0.0"

Prepare the Phone

1. Enable Developer Options in the Android Auto app (tap “Version” 10 times in AA settings).
2. In the 3-dot menu, select Start Head Unit Server.
3. Connect phone via USB (Mode: File Transfer / MTP).

Android Auto Desktop Head Unit (DHU)

To simulate Android Auto on your computer without a car:

Install DHU (Desktop Head Unit)

./sdkmanager --sdk_root=android_sdk "extras;google;auto"

Run the Simulator

1. Forward the port:

   adb forward tcp:5277 tcp:5277
   

2. Start DHU:

   ./desktop-head-unit
   

Logs

• View Logs:

  adb logcat -v time