According to a report, the Android Auto for Phone Screens app, which has been used as a workaround to get Android Auto benefits in older cars, will soon stop working. The news comes just weeks after Google announced that an updated version of Android Auto is in the works, with a new user interface and support for suggested responses based on Google Assistant’s contextual suggestions. Meanwhile, according to a separate report, Android Auto beta testers are having issues with the app’s setup process and wireless connection.
The first report comes from 9to5Google, which cites Reddit posts stating that the Android Auto for Phone Screens app is currently displaying a message stating that “Android Auto for Phone Screens will stop working soon.” While Google has not provided any official information on a specific closure date, the message appears to imply that the experience will be phased out in the near future. It’s worth noting that Google announced last year that the standalone app would be discontinued starting with Android 12.
In an Android Auto-related development, beta testers on Reddit have reported a number of issues (via Android Police). Google appears to be time to experiment with a new setup process for the experience. According to users, Android Auto on their phones is flashing a message about a setup process that isn’t working over a wireless connection. When connected to a car, however, the process works perfectly.
Google announced a new version of Android Auto a few weeks ago, and this setup process is expected to be included in the updated version. The next version of Android Auto will feature a new user interface that combines navigation, media, and communication into a single screen. Google Assistant’s contextual suggestions for messages and music recommendations will be included in this version. According to Google, this change will contribute to a safer driving experience.