Android Auto’s Secret Superpower Is a Customizable Shortcut Button

Android Auto includes a lesser-known feature that lets users create customizable shortcut buttons on their car dashboard, each mapped to a Google Assistant voice command such as getting directions, playing playlists, or controlling smart home devices. Shortcuts are configured via the Android Auto settings under Customize Launcher, where users can add, reorder, test, and delete them. Google is transitioning from Assistant to Gemini, but the shortcut functionality currently remains intact.