Key Points
- Android Auto now requires a newer phone.
- The minimum Android version is now 9.0.
- Most people already have a compatible phone.
Google has updated the rules for using Android Auto. To enjoy this handy in-car assistant, your smartphone must now run Android 9.0 or a later version.
Previously, you could use Android Auto with phones running Android 6.0 or higher. However, Google has gradually increased these requirements. In 2022, you needed Android 8.0. Now, it’s Android 9.0.
Don’t worry too much. Most people already have phones that meet this new standard. According to Google’s data, very few phones still use Android 8.0.
To use Android Auto, you’ll still need a car compatible with it and a good-quality USB cable. If you want to use it wirelessly, you’ll need an even newer phone (Android 10 or later) and a compatible car system.
This change means Google can introduce better features and improve performance for everyone. While it might disappoint a few users with older phones, it’s a small price to pay for a better overall experience.
