Fix AA Browse Not Showing or Not Working on Android Auto
Last updated: September 24, 2026
Quick fix: Turn on Android Auto developer mode, enable Unknown sources, clear Android Auto's cache, and reconnect your phone.
How to make AA Browse show up in Android Auto
AA Browse is installed outside the Google Play Store, so Android Auto hides it until you allow apps from unknown sources. These four steps take about two minutes.
Turn on Android Auto developer mode
Open Android Auto settings, scroll to Version, tap Version 10 times, and tap OK when asked to allow developer settings.
Enable Unknown sources
Open the three-dot menu, choose Developer settings, and check Unknown sources so Android Auto can show sideloaded apps.
Clear Android Auto's cache
Go to Settings, Apps, Android Auto, Force stop, Storage, then Clear cache. Do not clear data, because that resets Unknown sources.
Reconnect and refresh the launcher
Reconnect your phone. If AA Browse is still missing, open Google Maps or Waze once on the car screen and check that AA Browse is not hidden in launcher settings.
Android version notes
Check the setup notes for your Android version.
See the Android 17 guide for version-specific setup.
Re-check Unknown sources, clear Android Auto's cache, and open Maps or Waze once to refresh the app list.
If you get a black screen, turn off hardware acceleration and start the app while parked.
Check your USB cable and allow background data for AA Browse if it disconnects.
Install the ARM64 APK, clear cache, and check permissions if the icon is missing.
Android Auto not connecting or keeps disconnecting
- Use a short, high-quality USB data cable and try a different USB port.
- Set Android Auto and AA Browse battery use to Unrestricted and allow background data.
- Update Android Auto, restart your phone, and re-pair the car for wireless Android Auto.
Fix the AA Browse black screen
- Start AA Browse while parked and turn off hardware acceleration in its settings.
- Clear Android Auto's cache and check that you installed the ARM64 APK.
- Reinstall from AAStore if the problem continues.
Why AA Browse says Not available while driving
Android Auto blocks browsing and video when it thinks the car is moving. AA Browse is designed to be used while parked or by passengers.
- Fully engage the parking brake and put the car in Park.
- Check that Unknown sources is still enabled after updates.
- Force stop Android Auto, reconnect, and update AA Browse if needed.
Why AA Browse is not showing in the launcher
If you have installed the APK but do not see the AA Browse icon on your car screen, follow these checks:
- Install through AAStore: APKs installed from a file manager or browser download are more likely to be hidden.
- Refresh the launcher: Force stop Android Auto, reconnect your phone, and open Waze or Google Maps once on the car screen.
- Check hidden apps: Make sure AA Browse is not hidden in the Android Auto launcher settings.
AA Browse Troubleshooting FAQ
Answers to common troubleshooting questions.
Why is AA Browse not showing on my car screen?
Android Auto hides apps installed outside the Play Store until you enable developer mode and check Unknown sources. Then clear Android Auto's cache and reconnect your phone.
How do I turn on Android Auto developer mode?
Open Android Auto settings, scroll to Version, and tap it 10 times. Confirm the prompt, then open Developer settings from the three-dot menu.
Where is Unknown sources in Android Auto?
It is in Android Auto's Developer settings. Open Android Auto settings, tap the three-dot menu, choose Developer settings, and scroll to Unknown sources.
Why did Unknown sources turn off by itself?
Android Auto updates, Android system updates, and clearing Android Auto's data can reset developer settings. Re-enable it and reconnect your phone.
Why does AA Browse say Not available while driving when I'm parked?
Fully engage the parking brake, put the car in Park, check Unknown sources, then force stop Android Auto and reconnect.
Can I use AA Browse while driving?
No. Watching video or browsing while driving is dangerous and illegal in most places. AA Browse is designed for use while parked or by passengers where local law allows.
Why is Android Auto showing a black screen?
Launch AA Browse while parked, turn off hardware acceleration, and clear Android Auto's cache. For a black screen across all of Android Auto, try a different USB cable and restart your phone.
Why does Android Auto keep disconnecting?
The most common cause is a faulty or long USB cable. Other causes include battery optimization, a loose USB port, or Bluetooth pairing issues.
Will clearing Android Auto's cache delete my settings?
No. Clearing cache is safe. Clearing data resets Android Auto completely, including developer settings.
Do I need extra hardware to use AA Browse?
No. AA Browse runs on any car that supports Android Auto. You do not need an OBD2 device, wiring changes, or a special adapter.
Is a custom OBD2 scanner or hardware bypass required?
No custom hardware, OBD2 scanners, or active wire modifications are needed. The driving block is purely a software rule inside the Android Auto application layer. Sideloading the browser correctly and configuring developer settings completely resolves the driving restriction.
Are there safety risks associated with browsing while driving?
Yes. Browsing websites or watching videos while controlling a moving vehicle is highly dangerous and may violate local laws. AA Browse should primarily be used by passengers or while the vehicle is parked. Always prioritize safe driving practices and road awareness.
Still not working?
Report the issue on GitHub with your phone model, Android version, and car.