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Comment by colordrops | Hacker News Reader

They are probably confusing google auto with bluetooth.

On Android there is an option called "Bluetooth tethering - Share phone's internet connection via Bluetooth" . If it is On and you are connected to the car's bluetooth it will have internet access via your phone.

I'm suspicious that the car's system can do this. I don't think we should be assuming your car can tether internet through bluetooth until we see someone snoop Toyota-bound traffic being routed through their phone.

That's Bluetooth PAN. I would be very surprised that a car will implement this profile.

I have a 2025 Renault 4 etech and I frequently enable bluetooth thethering so I can access Spotify, HBO etc via the in car entertainment system (It runs a flavour of Android called OpenR Link) , not via android auto. Though I frequently need to enable the bluetooth tethering setting on the phone before the profile can be activated via the cars paired devices menu (where you can select other profiles such as Audio, calling, etc)

While the car has a sim card already, I can't use it for general purpose apps without a subscription. Only updates, remote control and I suppose telemetry.

I usually opt for choosing a bluetooth tether instead of wifi since I already establish a connection for calls, or music / audio books.

It isn't hard to imagine Android being able to transmit vehicle telemetry via the same means.

Volvos also have this. At least my 2021 xc60 did.

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