Voice-Controlled Car Accessories: Alexa Auto vs. Google Assistant

Overview of Alexa Auto and Google Assistant

Alexa Auto is Amazon’s automotive extension of Alexa. It’s available as a built-in option in select car infotainment systems. Alternatively, you can access it via the Alexa Auto app + Echo Auto device. 

It connects with your smartphone via Bluetooth or auxiliary input. Once connected, you can give voice commands to access music, navigation, and more. Hence, it’s compatible with most cars equipped with Bluetooth or auxiliary connections.

Google Assistant powers voice control within Android Auto (if the car doesn’t have any built-in Google Assistant integration). You can speak commands and let the voice assistant perform the task for you. Any car supporting Android Auto is the primary platform for Google Assistant in vehicles. 
 

Key Features Comparison

Features	Alexa Auto	Google Assistant
Navigation and Location Services	Alexa Auto can give you directions and guide you to nearby services. However, its accuracy is slightly less nuanced than that of Google Assistant.	Google Assistant uses Google Maps, real-time traffic information, and advanced routing algorithms to deliver exceptional navigation and location services.
Music and Media Control	You can use Alexa Auto to give voice commands for playback, pause, skip, etc. Its access to Amazon Music, Audible, and Alexa’s vast ecosystem of media content gives it a competitive edge.	Google Assistant supports similar voice commands as Alexa Auto. However, its broader media integration across Spotify, YouTube Music, podcasts, and other platforms makes it more entertainment-friendly.
Calling and Messaging	Simple voice commands can be given for hands-free calling. If you want it to read and reply to messages, ensure you grant it the required permissions on your phone.	It uses the phone’s native calling and messaging layers. Android Auto voice control seamlessly handles both calls and messages.
Smart Home Integration	Alexa has been dominating the smart home integration market for years. Even when you’re driving, you can give simple voice commands to control your home’s lights, locks, and other connected devices.	Google Assistant also lets you control your home devices from your car. Yet, Alexa remains a more popular choice because of its years of market exposure.
Third-Party App Support	Alexa Auto supports third-party apps from various developers. This enhanced support provides additional functionality.	Since Google Assistant has a stricter third-party app approval policy, few apps qualify for its support.

User Experience and Setup

Ease of Installation and Connectivity

If your cars have pre-configured Alexa Auto, you simply need to activate it for immediate usage. Others can use an Echo Auto device. Connect it via Bluetooth or an auxiliary cable, plug it into a power source, and pair it through the Alexa app. The entire installation process can be completed within a few minutes, and it automatically connects when you start your car. 

Google Assistant has a comparatively easier setup. It comes pre-configured for built-in installations. If your car doesn’t feature an in-built installation, simply connect your phone via USB and Android Auto will appear.    

Voice Recognition Accuracy

Alexa Auto utilises multiple microphones to filter out noise and capture commands, even in chaotic road situations. While it performs incredibly well with direct commands, it can struggle with complex requests or strong accents.

In the Alexa Auto vs. Google Assistant, Google Assistant leads in terms of voice recognition accuracy. Google’s superior natural language processing and contextual understanding helps it understand users’ voice commands more accurately. 

 

Interface and App Usability

Alexa Auto functions primarily through voice. It has no dashboard display integration. You can only get visual feedback on your smartphone’s Alexa app. If a car features an in-built integration, then the interface can vary by automaker’s implementation.

Google Assistant provides a comprehensive visual interface optimised for efficient and safe driving experiences. Large icons, split-screen mode, and a sidebar displaying recent apps and contextual suggestions enhance its usability.
 

Pros and Cons

Pros of Alexa Auto	Cons of Alexa Auto
Extensive music service compatibility Superior smart home integration Endless third-party app integrations for shopping, games, and more Works with most vehicles via Bluetooth or auxiliary support Strong voice detection in noisy backgrounds	No visual dashboard interface Requires a separate Echo Auto device (if the car doesn’t have an in-built Alexa integration) Depends on third-party apps for navigation Occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues Cannot function with a continuous internet connection

 

Pros of Google Assistant	Cons of Google Assistant
Best-in-class navigation, traffic, and mapping Seamless calling and messaging through voice commands Superior voice recognition with contextual understanding Regular software updates and new features No additional hardware required Integrated visual interface with split-screen capabilities	Limited smart home device compatibility compared to Alexa Voice recognition accuracy may drop in cars without adequate microphones Limited support for third-party app integrations

 

Conclusion

Smart car voice assistants, such as Alexa Auto and Google Assistant, are revolutionising the driving experience. They help individuals easily access navigation, media, and other features through simple voice commands.

While both are excellent car accessories, each has its distinct features, advantages, and disadvantages. You can use all the information shared in this blog to choose one that fulfills all your requirements.

Besides simplifying your driving experience with these smart car accessories, you should also protect your vehicle against potential financial damages. Secure it under a relevant Car Insurance, such as a Shriram Car Insurance policy, for financial protection against internal and external damages.

 

FAQs

Can Alexa Auto work without Echo devices?

Yes, Alexa Auto can work without Echo devices. Download and open the Amazon Alexa app on your smartphone. Then enable the hands-free option in the app’s settings. 

 

Is Google Assistant available in all cars?

No, Google Assistant isn’t available in all cars. It requires Android Auto compatibility for smoother access. 

 

Do these accessories require internet connectivity?

Yes, both Alexa Auto and Google Assistant require stable internet connectivity to function seamlessly.