Skip to content

Enabling Unknown Sources on Android Auto

Jump to bottom
Devid edited this page May 2, 2026 · 2 revisions

Enabling Unknown Sources on Android Auto

⚠️ Warning: This procedure is intended for developers and advanced users. Installing applications from unverified sources may pose security risks to your device. Proceed at your own risk.

Requirements

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • An Android device running Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) or higher
  • The Android Auto app installed and updated to the latest version
  • The .apk file of the application you want to sideload
  • (Optional) A USB cable or wireless connection to pair with your vehicle's head unit

What is Developer Mode in Android Auto

By default, Android Auto only allows apps that have been reviewed and approved by Google to run on the platform. Developer Mode unlocks additional settings — including the ability to install and test apps from unknown sources — that are hidden from regular users.

This is particularly useful for:

  • Testing apps before they are published on the Play Store
  • Using third-party or custom-built Android Auto apps
  • Debugging and development workflows

Enable Developer Mode on Android Auto

  1. Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
  2. Tap the hamburger menu (☰) in the top-left corner, then go to Settings.
  3. Scroll down until you see the Version entry (e.g., "Version 11.x.xxxxxx").
  4. Tap on the version number 10 times in quick succession.
  5. A dialog will appear asking if you want to enable Developer Settings. Tap OK.
  6. A new Developer settings option will now appear in the Settings menu.

💡 Tip: If nothing happens after tapping, make sure you are tapping quickly enough. The counter resets if you pause too long.

Enable Unknown Sources

Once Developer Mode is active:

  1. Go back to Settings in the Android Auto app.
  2. Tap Developer settings.
  3. Enable the toggle "Unknown sources" (sometimes labeled "Allow unknown apps" depending on your version).

Additionally, you may need to allow unknown sources at the Android system level:

  1. Open your device's Settings app.
  2. Navigate to Apps → tap the ⋮ menu (top-right) → Special app access.
  3. Tap Install unknown apps.
  4. Find the app you will use to install the .apk (e.g., Files, Chrome, or a file manager).
  5. Enable "Allow from this source" for that app.

ℹ️ On Android 8.0 (Oreo) and later, permission to install unknown apps is granted per-app rather than globally.

Install an Unverified App

With unknown sources enabled, you can now sideload an .apk:

  1. Transfer the .apk file to your device (via USB, cloud storage, or direct download).
  2. Open a file manager and navigate to the .apk file.
  3. Tap the file and confirm the installation when prompted.
  4. Once installed, the app should appear in Android Auto on your next connection.

⚠️ If the app does not appear in Android Auto, make sure it was built with Android Auto support and that your Android Auto version is compatible.

Disable Unknown Sources

It is strongly recommended to disable unknown sources after you have finished installing the app, to keep your device secure.

In Android Auto:

  1. Go to Settings → Developer settings.
  2. Toggle off "Unknown sources".

At the system level:

  1. Go to Settings → Apps → Special app access → Install unknown apps.
  2. Disable "Allow from this source" for each app you previously enabled.

FAQ

Q: My device doesn't show "Developer settings" after tapping the version.
A: Make sure you tap the version number quickly, without long pauses. Also verify you are on a supported version of Android Auto (v4.0 or later is recommended).

Q: The sideloaded app doesn't appear in Android Auto.
A: The app must explicitly declare Android Auto support in its manifest. Not all APKs are compatible with Android Auto even if installed correctly.

Q: Is this process reversible?
A: Yes. You can disable Developer Mode by clearing the Android Auto app data (Settings → Apps → Android Auto → Storage → Clear Data), which resets all developer options.

Q: Will this void my vehicle's warranty?
A: Enabling Developer Mode on your phone does not affect your vehicle. However, always check your head unit manufacturer's documentation before installing unofficial apps.

Q: Does this work on Android Auto Wireless?
A: Yes, sideloaded apps compatible with Android Auto will work over both USB and Wireless connections, as long as they are properly installed on the phone.

Related Resources

Last updated: May 2026

Clone this wiki locally