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Android Auto Will Stop Working on These Smartphones. Google Confirms New Requirements
Nothing lasts forever, and that holds true for Android Auto. Google has recently updated the hardware requirements for its popular in-car application, which connects smartphones to vehicle infotainment screens. This significant change is set to affect a considerable portion of users, with projections suggesting that at least 8.8% of the ecosystem’s users, based on October 2026 data, will find their devices no longer supported.
Android Auto Discontinues Support for Android 9 and Android 10
Google has officially updated its Android Auto support page, announcing the end of support for Android 9 (Pie) and Android 10 (Queen Cake). Moving forward, the minimum required operating system version for Android Auto will be Android 11. This decision reflects Google’s ongoing commitment to security, performance, and integrating newer features that rely on more modern OS capabilities.
The impact of this update is already being felt by users. Reports are emerging from individuals confirming that Android Auto has indeed ceased functioning on their devices running Android 9 or 10. This proactive discontinuation encourages users to update their devices to maintain compatibility with the evolving automotive technology landscape.
Which Smartphones Are Affected?
This update means that many popular smartphones released in earlier years will no longer be able to utilize Android Auto. Devices that cannot be updated to Android 11 are particularly impacted. Examples of smartphones that are likely to lose Android Auto functionality include:
- Samsung Galaxy S9 series
- Samsung Galaxy Note 9 series
- Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact
- And other devices that topped the charts in 2018-2019 but are now locked to Android 9 or 10.
If you own one of these older models, it’s crucial to check your device’s Android version. You can usually find this information in your phone’s Settings under “About phone” or “Software information.”
Understanding Google’s Support Cycle
This isn’t the first time Google has adjusted the minimum requirements for Android Auto. The company typically updates its support requirements every couple of years to ensure the application remains robust and secure. For instance:
- In 2022, support for Android 6 was discontinued.
- In 2024, Android 8 also lost its official support.
Considering that Android 10 was initially released in 2019, this means the operating system received approximately seven years of support before losing Android Auto compatibility. This support window is generally in line with what many smartphone manufacturers offer for their flagship devices, ensuring a reasonable lifecycle for older premium phones.
For those interested in the broader ecosystem of in-car technology, an interesting comparison can be drawn with Apple CarPlay. While both systems aim to integrate smartphone functionality into vehicles, their approach to software updates and device compatibility can vary. You can explore more about these integrations and the continuous evolution of in-car tech here.
What to Do If Your Device is No Longer Supported
If your current smartphone is running Android 9 or 10 and can’t be updated to Android 11, you won’t be able to use Android Auto. However, there’s no need to rush out and purchase the most expensive new model. Even budget-friendly smartphones available today often come equipped with recent Android versions (e.g., Android 13 or newer), which will continue to be supported by essential applications like Android Auto for many years to come.
Upgrading your device can also resolve common connectivity problems often experienced with older software. If you’ve been facing persistent connectivity issues with Android Auto, you might find solutions and insights in this article, which discusses how Google has addressed such problems.
Staying current with operating system updates is generally recommended not just for app compatibility but also for security enhancements and access to the latest features. It ensures a smoother and safer digital experience, both on and off the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Google regularly updates its software requirements to enhance security, improve performance, and integrate new features that are only possible with more modern operating system capabilities. Discontinuing support for older versions ensures that Android Auto remains robust, secure, and compatible with the latest technological advancements.
You can typically check your Android version by navigating to your phone’s “Settings” menu. Look for an option like “About phone,” “System,” or “Software information.” Within this section, you should find details about your Android version number.
No, not necessarily. While a new phone is required if your current device cannot update to Android 11, many affordable and mid-range smartphones available today come pre-installed with recent Android versions (e.g., Android 13 or newer) that are fully compatible with Android Auto and will be supported for years to come.
Source: Android Authority. Opening photo: Krzysztof Wilamowski
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