ZDNET's key takeaways The AAWireless Two typically costs $65 and gives you wireless Android Auto support when plugged in.
A new built-in button lets you quickly swap between paired devices.
The companion app is almost too robust, but that's a good problem to have. $51.99 at Amazon
For a limited time, Amazon has the AAWireless Two listing for just $51 ($13 off), making the adapter an even better deal.
Since I bought my first car three years ago, I've had the worst luck with wireless Android Auto adapters. I initially sprung for the Motorola MA1 because of its popularity and, admittedly, Amazon's algorithmic recommendation, but it was simply too unreliable to use during commutes and road trips.
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The pairing process wasn't always the fastest; audio playback (including navigation instructions) tended to stutter, and the dongle would often get so warm that it felt uncomfortable stashing it inside the center console. When I took the risk on a different, generic brand, its interpretation of "wireless Android Auto" meant fully replacing the operating system with its own proprietary user interface. Boo.
A bit of cross-shopping led me to the AAWireless adapter, which, like the Motorola MA1, connects to your car via USB-A and serves as a wireless receiver for Android Auto. I've been testing it for more than half a year now, and my driving experience has never been more refreshing.
The AAWireless Two adapter costs $65, which is actually cheaper than its predecessor and competing accessories. How it works is fairly straightforward: You download and open the AAWireless companion app (should you want to make any modifications or update the software), plug the adapter into your car via USB-A, long-press its multifunctional button to initiate pairing mode, and then connect to it on your phone screen.
From this point forward, your phone will automatically pair with the adapter when your car is turned on.
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