We know that every rider’s cockpit looks different. Some of you prefer rugged GPS units, some use tablets for maximum visibility, and others prefer to use their phone. And Stegra.io supports them all. Recently, we’ve seen a lot of riders switching to affordable, standalone Android Auto and CarPlay screens, and that is why we also implemented support for these.

At Stegra, our goal isn’t to tell you what device to use; it’s to make sure Stegra.io works reliably on whatever setup you prefer, whether you are on gravel or paved roads.

If you are considering one of these devices, or if you already have one, here is a short breakdown of how Stegra.io works with this interface.

How a navigation app works with your Screen

It is important to understand that an Android Auto or CarPlay screen is not a standalone computer. It is essentially a “second monitor” for your phone.

Your phone is still doing the work. It handles the GPS signal, the data processing, and the route calculation. The screen simply mirrors the visual information and allows for basic touch interaction. This means that while your phone can be tucked away in a pocket or tank bag, it is still the brain of the operation. Because of this, we recommend keeping your phone connected to a power source.

CarPlay & Android Auto Navigation Features

The CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces are designed by Google and Apple to be simplified for safety. They don’t allow the full complexity of a mobile app to be shown on a vehicle dashboard.

Directly on the device screen, you can:

• Follow your active route with turn-by-turn visuals (including seamless navigation between multiple routes, just like in the app).
• Navigate to a specific address.
• Navigate routes you´ve added to the map in the app on your phone.
• Hear voice navigation instructions.
• Toggle map layers.
• Switch route modes.

When to reach for the phone:

To do the “heavy lifting”—like browsing your route library, importing GPX files, or creating complex custom routes—you will need to grab your phone. However, the moment you add a route to the map on your phone, it will immediately appear on the external screen, ready to ride.

Hardware Advice: What to look for

Stegra doesn’t sell hardware, and we don’t recommend any specific brand over another. However, since we are riders, our best tip is:

• Read multiple user reviews: There are many units on the market. Look for reviews specifically from motorcyclists on YouTube and forums to get a good grip on what device will suit you best.

Conclusion:

Stegra.io and our core route engine deliver the same exceptional ride experience on CarPlay and Android Auto. Whether you enjoy curvy tarmac roads, adventurous gravel, or both, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy smooth turn-by-turn instructions, the freedom to switch seamlessly between multiple routes, and the ability to quickly navigate to a destination in any mode. The user interface on CarPlay/Android Auto is simplified, but the ride experience is uncompromised.

Future Development

We are actively working to add more features to the CarPlay and Android Auto interface.

See you on the road (or the trail).

/Niclas

This is not a recommendation but some info to give you a better picture when looking into what you´re after for your navigation needs, a phone, a tablet or a CarPlay/Android Auto unit. Remember, whatever you choose, we are dedicated to give you the same great ride experience with Stegra.io