Set Up Phone Games for Your Android Auto Screen

If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy games on your car’s expansive display instead of squinting at your phone while waiting for your kids to finish their sports practice, you’re in for a treat. With an Android phone and Android Auto equipped in your vehicle, you can now indulge in gaming during those waiting moments.

As of September 2026, gaming support on Android Auto has officially transitioned out of beta, with Google encouraging developers to integrate car support for their games. A variety of titles are already available, allowing you to relax and play while your electric vehicle charges, your children attend a party, or during a well-deserved break on a lengthy road trip. Google aims to provide drivers with engaging activities during downtime. With developers now on board, expect a significant increase in entertainment options on your car’s screen.

Currently, over 35 games support Android Auto. Many of these games target young children, focusing on activities like coloring, learning letters, and basic math. For adult gamers, titles like Angry Birds 2, Candy Crush Soda Saga, and Beach Buggy Racing are available as well. Although the selection doesn’t yet include popular titles like Hearthstone, Call of Duty, or Super Mario Run, there is still plenty of fun to be had. Given that it has only been a short while since the launch, there is optimism that more games will be added to this growing list.

It’s important to understand a key restriction of this new Android Auto feature: games can only be played when your vehicle is parked. The games are designed to recognize when the car is stationary, so do not expect to sneak in a game during a stoplight or in heavy traffic. If you start driving, the game will disappear from the screen, and Android Auto will revert to the home screen, with the game icon graying out.

Unfortunately, full screen mirroring of your phone’s display onto Android Auto is not possible. This limitation exists for several reasons. First, it ensures that games are appropriately sized for your vehicle’s display. Second, it helps maintain safety protocols. The good news is that games designed for Android Auto can utilize controllers, providing a more console-like gaming experience.

Getting a game to display on your dashboard is quite simple. First, download your favorite game from the selection of Android Auto-compatible titles available. You can also navigate to Google Play Store > Apps > Categories > Android Auto to browse through the games. Once you’ve installed the necessary games, it’s time to head to your vehicle. Connect your phone to Android Auto using a USB cable or wirelessly, depending on your car’s capabilities. The compatible games should appear on your screen. If they do not, access Settings > Connected Devices > Android Auto > Customize launcher to ensure the games you want to play are visible in the launcher. It’s easy to manage which apps are shown or hidden on Android Auto.

When parked, feel free to launch your chosen game and enjoy the experience. If you find the current selection of Android Auto-compatible games unappealing, you can also explore what’s available within Android Auto itself, such as GameSnacks. While these may not be the most exciting options, they can provide some entertainment when you’re feeling bored.

Angry Birds 2 is just as enjoyable on the larger screen, while Candy Crush Soda Saga remains engaging and responsive. If you’re a parent looking for games for kids, consider My Talking Tom Friends. On the other hand, BB Racing 2 may prove challenging to play since it requires both hands for steering via screen taps. Using a connected controller can enhance your experience if this is a favorite game of yours.

Ultimately, you now have numerous ways to entertain yourself while parked, which is far more enjoyable than simply waiting idly or scrolling through social media. This feature enhances your overall Android Auto experience.