Droid Dashcam Options: Dedicated Camera or Android App?

Yes, with a suitable app and secure mount, but heat, storage, notifications and manual setup can make it less dependable than a dedicated camera.

No. Most camera apps connect directly to the dash cam over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and operate separately from Android Auto.

That depends on the app, phone permissions and power-management settings. Verify the behaviour before relying on it.

Use the manufacturer's app where supported, or remove the memory card and use a compatible reader. Save important clips before loop recording overwrites them.