Found workaround for lack of Android Auto

Toyota tech support has no plans to push out Android Auto to our Primes if it doesn't already have it. I use Android, but I managed a passable workaround to get Google Maps (et. al.) on the big screen without converting to an iPhone.

That said; You'll still need an iPhone but don't need to activate or sign up for any services.

I asked friends in social media if anyone had any old iPhones in a drawer that they weren't using. Several offered cracked but functional devices.

I factory reset the iPhone and installed apps like Google Maps and Audible and connect it using my 2020 Prime's Carplay. Importantly; I set the iPhone to connect to my Android's wifi hotspot. I disabled all security (no PIN or fingerprint). I downloaded the offline map for the area where I generally drive.

Now, if I need Internet access when travelling out if my local area or playing audiobooks or podcasts, I turn in the Android WiFi hotspot.

It's clunky, but it's better than letting all that video real estate go unused. If you don't have a generous friend with an old, cracked iPhone, you can get them cheap on eBay.