Google raises Android Auto minimum requirement to Android 11
- Google has increased the minimum Android version for Android Auto from 9 to 11.
- Users with devices stuck on Android 9 or 10 will lose access to the platform.
- The change follows previous warnings sent to users of older operating systems.
- Drivers may need to update their software or replace their phones to regain functionality.
- This move continues Google's trend of phasing out support for older Android versions.
Google has officially increased the minimum operating system requirement for wired Android Auto connections from Android 9 to Android 11. This change confirms that devices running Android 9 and Android 10 are no longer supported by the platform.
The update to the system requirements ensures that users must now run Android 11 or later to maintain connectivity with their vehicles.
Drivers face hardware upgrades to maintain connectivity
Users whose phones cannot be updated to Android 11 or a newer version will need to replace their devices to continue using Android Auto. For those unable to upgrade their handset software, the platform no longer functions on phones using Android 9 or 10.
A Facebook post suggests that Google Assistant’s new driving mode will replace the standalone Android Auto app for some users.
Warnings preceded the official support drop
The decision follows earlier reports that users running Android 10 had received warnings regarding the end of support. Users have since indicated that the Android Auto feature stopped working on those older operating system versions.
Support page reflects new system requirements
This change formally replaces the previous requirement of Android 9 Pie.
In separate developments, Jensen Huang, the founder and CEO of Nvidia, sent a letter to employees admitting he was unfaithful to his wife and accepting full responsibility for his actions. Nvidia's board of directors announced an independent investigation on Sunday, November 9, 2026, into potential risks following reports that US intelligence considers Huang a target of a foreign operation.
Reports allege the affair involved Alice Huang, a former executive of the Singaporean firm Megaspeed. Megaspeed is accused of smuggling 2 billion dollars worth of chips into China via its subsidiary Speedmatrix.
Nvidia has rejected suspicions of improper relations, and the Chinese government has described the espionage accusations as unfounded. The Nvidia board of directors has expressed confidence in Jensen Huang's leadership while the investigation is underway.
Historical trend of phasing out older Android versions
Google previously dropped support for Android 6 in 2022 and Android 8 in 2024, and the latest change removes Android 9 and Android 10. The company previously dropped support for Android 6 in 2022 and Android 8 in 2024. The latest change removes support for both Android 9 and Android 10.
Forthcoming Android Auto 18.0 beta and redesign
Google has launched the Android Auto 18.0 beta. This release showcases a forthcoming Cielo interface redesign. The update may introduce a refreshed and adaptable interface for vehicle infotainment displays.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Google ends Android Auto support for Android 9 and 10 (androidauthority.com)
- Android Leftovers - Tux Machines (news.tuxmachines.org)
- Android Auto drops support for two Android versions, leaving older phones behind (androidpolice.com)
- Nvidia, Huang admits affair and an investigation begins • Meteora Web (meteoraweb.com)
- Android Auto drops Android 9 and 10 as Google confirms ... (facebook.com)
- How to Fix Google Maps Not Working on Android Auto (technobezz.com)
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