● Covered by 2 sources · 2 reportsMedium impact2 neutral
Android Auto Now Requires Android 11 or Newer, Ending Support for Older Versions
Key points
- Android Auto now requires Android 11 or newer.
- Support for Android 9 and Android 10 has been discontinued.
- Users with older OS versions will need to update or get a new device.
- Warnings about this change appeared for some users in October 2026.
- Google previously dropped Android 8 support in 2024.
Updated System Requirements
Google has officially updated the minimum operating system requirement for Android Auto. Users now need a device running Android 11 or newer to use the in-car experience.
This change means that Android 9 and Android 10 are no longer supported for Android Auto. The updated requirement is reflected on Google's support page, specifying "An Android phone with Android 11.0 (Red Velvet Cake) or higher and an active data plan" for functionality.
Impact on Users
The discontinuation of support for Android 9 and Android 10 affects users with older smartphones. To continue using Android Auto, these users will need to update their device's operating system to Android 11 or newer, or acquire a newer phone.
Some drivers began seeing "Phone will no longer be supported" messages as early as October 2026, even before Google's official documentation was updated this week. However, the latest app update, Android Auto 18.1, still supports Android 10.
Historical Context
Google periodically updates the minimum Android version required for Android Auto. For instance, in 2024, Android 8 was dropped from service. Android 11 was initially released in 2020.
The previous minimum requirement for Android Auto was Android 9 and Android 10, a standard that was raised in 2024 but not fully enforced until 2025.
Compatibility Check
To use Android Auto, a device needs Android 11 or higher, an active data plan, and a compatible vehicle. Users can check their car's compatibility through Google's resources.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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How outlets covered it
Google has updated Android Auto requirements, now mandating Android 11 or newer for wired connections, discontinuing support for Android 9 and Android 10. This change means users with older Android versions must update their device's OS or acquire a newer phone to continue using Android Auto.
Google has updated Android Auto's minimum operating system requirement to Android 11 or newer. This change discontinues support for devices running Android 9 and 10, impacting users with older smartphones.