Owners of flagship smartphones Huawei P60 Pro often face a paradoxical situation: a powerful device with top-end hardware does not have pre-installed Google services. This limits the use of familiar features, such as the ones millions of drivers need to safely control navigation and music while on the road. However, the absence Android Auto, which millions of drivers need to safely control navigation and music on the road. However, the lack GMS (Google Mobile Services) is not a death sentence, and there are working methods for integrating a car and a smartphone.
The installation process is not a trivial “press of one button”, as it requires manual intervention in the system and the installation of third-party launchers or emulators. In this article, we will analyze in detail the architecture of restrictions, ways to bypass blocking through HiCar or custom solutions, and also consider the nuances of the wireless communication protocol. Be prepared for the fact that some steps will require connecting to a PC or using alternative application stores.
Before you begin technical manipulations, it is important to understand that you will be working with system settings and third-party software. The key point for the P60 Pro is the use of a version of Android based on EMUI 13.1 or higher, where the security architecture is tightened compared to previous generations. We will look at both official methods of cooperation with automakers and popular “folk” methods that allow you to return full Google functionality to your car.
Why there is no native Android Auto on the Huawei P60 Pro
Lack of problem Android Auto on devices Huaweireleased after May 2019 is rooted in trade sanctions imposed by the US government. This led to the company losing its license to use Google services, including Play Market, YouTube and, which is critical for drivers, the screen projection module into the car. The smartphone P60 Prodespite its power, runs on an ecosystem HMS (Huawei Mobile Services)which by default is incompatible with Google protocols.
Architecturally, the system Android Auto requires background Google Play services for authentication, loading maps and managing media content. Without these components, the standard application simply will not start or will not see the car's head unit. Even if you try to install the APK file manually, the system will display a compatibility error or freeze at the connection initialization stage.
⚠️ Warning: Attempting to install older versions of the Google Services Framework through third-party utilities may lead to system instability and increased battery consumption. On the P60 Pro model, the processor architecture and security system are significantly different from the older P30 or Mate 20 series models.
However, the developer community and Huawei itself have found workarounds. One of them is the development of its own platform HiCar, which functionally duplicates the capabilities of a competitor, but requires support from the automaker. Another way is to use virtual environments that allow you to run Google applications in an isolated space.
Preparing the smartphone and car for connection
Successful integration depends on proper preparation of both devices. First, make sure that your head unit (radio tape recorder) supports projection protocols. Most modern cars are equipped with modules for Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, but in the case of Huawei you may need the “Phone Projection” mode or support for the standard HiCar.
On the smartphone itself P60 Pro you need to activate developer mode and enable USB debugging if you plan to use complex installation methods. Also check the quality of the cable: to transmit video streams and real-time data, you need a certified USB-C cable that supports high-speed data transfer, not just charging.
- 🔌 Use an original Huawei cable or a high-quality analogue labeled “Data Sync.”
- 📱 Update your smartphone firmware to the latest version via
Settings → System and update. - 🚗 In the car settings, enable smartphone connection mode (usually in the “Connectivity” or “Projection” section).
- 🛡️ Disable temporary battery optimizations for applications that will be used on the go.
Special attention Pay attention to your lock screen settings. Sometimes the security system EMUI blocks the transmission of the video signal if the smartphone is locked with a password while driving. In some cases, you need to configure exceptions in the section Security → Device protectionto allow access to data when USB is connected.
Before the first connection attempt, clear the cache of the Phone and Contacts applications to speed up synchronization of the phone book with the car system.
Installation method via Gbox and service emulation
The most popular solution for running Google applications on Huawei P60 Pro is to use a virtual environment Gbox. This application creates an isolated container within which Google services run, tricking the system into thinking that GMS is installed natively. For work Android Auto this method is partially suitable, mainly for launching navigation and music, but the full projection of the interface may be limited.
The process begins by loading the application manager AppGallery, which is preinstalled on the smartphone. Find it in search Gbox and install it. After the first launch, the application will ask for permission to create shortcuts and access the storage - this is necessary for the emulator to work correctly. Inside the Gbox interface, you will need to log in with your Google account.
| Setup stage | Action in Gbox | Expected result |
|---|---|---|
| Initialization | Launch the application and accept the license agreement | Creating a virtual desktop |
| Authorization | Entering Google login and password | Access to the Play Market within the environment |
| Installation | Search and loading Android Auto | The appearance of an icon on the Gbox desktop |
| Settings | Issuing all requested permissions | Readiness to connect to the car |
It is important to understand that launch Android Auto through Gbox does not always guarantee stable operation of the video output to the car screen. Often this solution works as a launcher for launching cards Google Maps or player Spotify directly on the smartphone screen, which is then broadcast by other means. To fully project the interface onto the radio, this method may require additional access rights settings.
What to do if Gbox crashes when connected?
Try disabling battery optimization for the Gbox app in your phone settings. Also make sure that you have the latest version of Gbox installed, as older versions may not work correctly with EMUI 13.1.
Using Huawei's own HiCar ecosystem
The company Huawei is actively promoting its solution called HiCar, which is positioned as a direct competitor to Android Auto. On the model P60 Pro this function is built deep into the system and works much more stable than any emulators, since it does not require bypassing restrictions. If your car supports HiCar (often found in BYD models, some versions of Volkswagen, Audi and Chinese brands), this is an ideal option.
Connection is carried out both via cable and wirelessly. To activate, go to Settings → Device connections → HiCar. Here you will see a list of available cars. If the car is not automatically located, you may need to enter a PIN code, which is displayed on the screen of the car's multimedia system. The interface is minimalistic and adapted for driving, providing access to navigation HiCar minimalistic and adapted for driving, providing access to navigation Petal Maps, music and calls.
⚠️ Attention: The HiCar function may be not available in some regions or on certain smartphone versions. If the menu item is missing, check for system updates or contact Huawei support for your region. Details of support for specific car models may change; check the compatibility list on the official website of the car manufacturer.
The main advantage HiCar over Google emulation is deep integration with the smartphone hardware. The system uses dedicated communication channels to minimize latency and power consumption. In addition, Petal Maps, which is a standard navigator in this ecosystem, offers offline maps and detail that is not inferior to solutions from Google, and in some regions of Asia and Europe even surpasses them.
☑️ Checking HiCar compatibility
Alternative solutions: Headunit Reloaded and AAStream
For those whose cars do not support HiCarand the method with Gbox does not provide a full projection, there are specialized intermediary applications. One of the most powerful tools is Headunit Reloaded (HUR). This application turns your smartphone screen into a head unit emulator that “fools” the car into thinking that a compatible device is connected to it.
Installation HUR on P60 Pro requires downloading an APK file from a third-party resource, since it is not available in the AppGallery. Once installed, the app will ask for an extensive list of permissions, including access to the microphone, geolocation, and overlay on other windows. It is critical to provide all rights, otherwise the connection will be broken immediately after you start shaking hands with the radio.
The setup process is as follows: launch the application on your smartphone, select the emulation mode (Wireless or USB), then launch Android Auto on the car screen. The smartphone must intercept the signal and display the interface. It is worth noting that the free version HUR has a limit on operating time (usually 5 minutes), so for constant use you will need to purchase a license.
- 🚀 The application allows you to use the full Android Auto interface even without GMS.
- ⚙️ Fine-tuning the screen resolution and pixel density (DPI) is required for a specific radio.
- 💰 The full version is paid, but provides stable operation without time limits.
- 🔋 Can significantly increase the heating of the smartphone during prolonged navigation.
Another option is to use applications like AAStream, which broadcast the image from the phone screen to the radio via a mirroring protocol, simulating the Auto interface. This solution is less integrated, but is often easier to set up for older car firmware versions.
Emulator applications like Headunit Reloaded are the most universal way to get Android Auto on Huawei, but require the purchase of a license for comfortable daily use.
Setting up a wireless connection and troubleshooting problems
Wireless connection Android Auto on Huawei P60 Pro is possible, but it places high demands on network stability and energy saving settings. To ensure that the connection does not break down on bumps or in areas of poor reception, you need to disable aggressive optimization of the Wi-Fi module in the background.
Go to Settings → Applications → Applications → (your application for Auto) → Battery consumption and select the “Manage manually” mode, activating all the switches (Autostart, Indirect launch, Work in the background). This will prevent the system from putting the projection process to sleep when the smartphone screen goes dark.
A common problem is out-of-sync audio and video or a complete lack of audio signal. In such cases, it is recommended to manually select the audio output device in the car's Bluetooth settings, switching it from “Phone” to “Multimedia” or vice versa. Restarting the communication modules also helps: turn airplane mode on and off.
⚠️ Attention: When using a wireless connection, the smartphone will discharge much faster. It is recommended to use a high-quality wireless charger in the car or connect the power cable in parallel with the Wi-Fi connection, if the holder design allows it.
If the connection occurs, but the map does not load, check the date and time settings. When the clocks on your smartphone and your car are out of sync, your security certificates may fail, causing Google or Huawei servers to refuse data transfer. Set the mode to "Auto" for both devices.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to fully install Google Play on Huawei P60 Pro?
A full/native installation of Google Play is impossible without flashing it, which voids the warranty and is technically difficult. However, using virtual environments like Gbox or Gspace allows you to run 95% of applications from the Google store, including navigation and instant messengers, with minimal performance losses.
Does the Google Assistant voice assistant work in a car through these methods?
In emulators (Gbox), the voice assistant may work unstable or not be activated by the button on the steering wheel. The HiCar solution uses the Celia voice assistant, which supports basic navigation and music control commands, but does not have the same knowledge base as Google Assistant.
Is it safe to use Headunit Reloaded from a privacy point of view?
The HUR application is a local emulator and does not transfer your personal data to third-party servers, except for what is necessary for the operation of the applications themselves (maps, music). However, since this is third-party software, always download it only from the official website of the developer or verified repositories.
Why does the microphone not work when making calls via Android Auto on Huawei?
Most often the problem lies in a permission conflict. Go to the settings of the application through which the emulation is carried out, and make sure that access to the microphone is always allowed. Also check if the Huawei Phone system app is intercepting the call by turning off its priority in the Bluetooth settings.
Will the connection method be updated after updating EMUI?
Yes, major system updates may reset permission settings or change the USB architecture. After each major firmware update, it is recommended to double-check the energy saving settings and access rights for emulator applications or HiCar.