A platform is only as good as its developers and apps, which has posed a problem for Android Auto up to this point. Developers had no way to really test out Android Auto apps without buying an Android Auto-enabled vehicle or an Android Auto head unit.
Thankfully, Google has released a new Android Auto Desktop Unit that does exactly what it sounds like; simulates an Android Auto environment on a desktop. Instead of having to use a vehicle to test out apps, the desktop unit runs on a computer so you can fully test out anything without having to leave your house. Pretty useful, and it should definitely make testing and building Android Auto apps a little more accessible.
There a few caveats with this, but they aren’t uncommon for development tools. For starters, your device will have to be connected to your computer via USB, so no wireless connectivity here. You’ll also have to have at least Android 5.0 for the Android Auto app to work. Nothing major, but things to keep in mind if you’re considering jumping into developing an Android Auto app.
source: Android Developers Blog
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