Best Screen Mirroring Apps for Android Auto in 2025 | The Ultimate Guide

Android Auto is a powerful tool for navigation and communication, but its default restrictions can be frustrating. To ensure safety, Google blocks video playback and full phone screen mirroring. However, for passengers or use while parked, many users want to bypass these limits to watch YouTube, Netflix, or use apps not natively supported by the platform.

If you are looking for the best screen mirroring app for Android Auto, the solution lies in third-party applications. This guide will walk you through the top mirroring and streaming apps available, most of which can be effortlessly installed using the AAAD (Android Auto Apps Downloader) and how to configure them for the best experience.

What is AAAD?

Before diving into specific apps, you need the right tool to install them. AAAD (Android Auto Apps Downloader) is a popular application that allows you to download third-party Android Auto apps directly to your device without needing a PC.

AAAD acts as a bridge, enabling the installation of mirroring apps like Screen2Auto, CarStream, and Fermata Auto that are unavailable on the Google Play Store due to Google's safety policies.

How to Set Up Screen Mirroring (Step-by-Step)

To ensure these apps appear on your car's display, you must configure your Android Auto developer settings.

1. Download the App: Use AAAD to download your chosen app (e.g., Screen2Auto or Fermata Auto).
2. Enable Developer Mode:
   • Open Android Auto settings on your phone.
   • Scroll to the "Version" section.
   • Tap the "Version" text 10 times until a pop-up asks to enable Developer Mode.
3. Allow Unknown Sources:
   • Tap the three dots in the top right corner of the Android Auto settings.
   • Select Developer Settings.
   • Check the box for "Unknown Sources".
4. Connect: Plug your phone into your car via USB (or connect wirelessly) and look for the new app icon on your car's infotainment menu.

Top 3 Screen Mirroring Apps for Android Auto

A) Screen2Auto (The Customization King) Best for: Advanced users wanting full control and web browsing. Screen2Auto is a powerhouse that combines the features of older apps like Android Auto Mirror and Android Auto Stream. It is widely regarded as one of the most versatile solutions in 2025.

• Key Features

• Full Mirroring: Casts your entire Android screen to the car dashboard.
• Web Browsing: Unlike standard Android Auto, Screen2Auto allows you to browse the web and download apps.
• App Launcher: Features a dedicated launcher to open non-default apps directly from the head unit. • Root Requirements: While the app can be installed on non-rooted phones, root access is generally required to enable touch control on the car screen. Without root, you may only be able to view the screen while controlling it from the phone.

B) AA Mirror & AA Mirror Plus Best for: Simple, straightforward screen casting. For users who want a no-nonsense approach to mirroring, AA Mirror Plus is the go-to choice. It focuses on doing one thing well: putting your phone screen on your car display.

• Key Features

• Multi-touch Support: Essential for zooming in on maps or photos.
• Orientation Control: Allows you to force landscape mode for a better fit on the dashboard.
• No Ads: Provides a clean user experience without interruptions. • Installation: You can easily download AA Mirror Plus via AAAD or the CarStream installer. Like Screen2Auto, full touch interaction typically requires a rooted device.

C) Fermata Auto (The Media Specialist) Best for: Playing local video files, IPTV, and YouTube without root. Fermata Auto is a favorite for users who do not want to root their phones. It is an open-source video player that has been updated to work seamlessly with modern Android versions, including Android 16.

• Key Features

• Android 16 Support: Fully compatible with the latest Android OS updates, offering improved stability.
• Media Playback: Plays video files from your phone’s storage, SD card, or USB.
• Streaming: Supports YouTube and IPTV (TV channels) via M3U playlists.
• Steering Wheel Control: Integrates with your car's media buttons for safer control. • Why Choose It: It is free, safe, and works on non-rooted devices, making it the most accessible option for watching videos while parked.

Best Alternative for YouTube: CarStream

If your only goal is to watch YouTube videos, CarStream (formerly YouTube Auto) is the industry standard.

• No Root Required: You do not need to root your phone to use CarStream.

• User Interface: Features a user-friendly interface with a search bar, zoom capability, and easy account management.

• Limitations: It is designed strictly for YouTube. It does not natively support Netflix or other streaming services.

Hardware Alternatives: AI Boxes

If you prefer a plug-and-play solution without modifying your phone, consider an AI Box adapter. Devices like the Carlinkit AI Box or Magic Box plug into your USB port and run a full Android OS on your car screen.

• Pros: Native support for Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+; no phone rooting required; works wirelessly.

• Cons: Significantly more expensive than using free apps via AAAD.

Disclaimer: Video playback features should only be used when the vehicle is parked. Please follow all local driving laws and safety regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most common questions regarding screen mirroring on Android Auto.

1. Do I need to root my phone to mirror my screen? It depends on the app.

• No Root Needed: Apps like CarStream and Fermata Auto allow you to stream YouTube and play local video files without rooting your device.

• Root Recommended: For full screen mirroring with touch control (using Screen2Auto or AA Mirror), root access is typically required. Without root, you may see the screen but will have to control the apps from your phone.

2. Can I watch Netflix on Android Auto? Watching Netflix is difficult with standard mirroring apps due to DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection, which often results in a black screen with audio only.

• Software Solution: Fermata Auto has a web browser feature that may allow you to log in and watch, though results vary.

• Hardware Solution: The most reliable way to watch Netflix is using a hardware AI Box (like the Magic Box or Ottocast), which has the Netflix app built-in.

3. Why am I getting a black screen when I connect?

A black screen is a common issue caused by settings or cables.

To fix it:

• Adjust Resolution: Go to Android Auto Developer Settings and change the "Video Resolution" to match your car's head unit.

• Check Cables: Ensure you are using a high-quality data cable.

• Refresh Connection: Toggle Airplane mode or restart the car's head unit.

4. Does AAAD limit how many apps I can download?

Yes. The free version of AAAD typically allows for one download every 30 days. If you need to install multiple apps (e.g., both CarStream and Fermata Auto) immediately, you may need to upgrade to the Pro version.

5. Will these apps work on Android 16?

Yes, Fermata Auto has been updated to support Android 16, offering faster connectivity and better stability on the latest devices. However, older apps like AA Mirror may require patches or specific workarounds on newer Android versions.

6. Is it safe to use these apps while driving?

These apps are designed to unlock features that Google restricts for safety. Watching videos or browsing the web should only be done while the vehicle is parked. Distracted driving is dangerous and illegal in most jurisdictions.