Major Android Auto 14 update available for download on Play Store
Google just released a major Android Auto version change to 14. Android Auto 14, now released to beta channel, brings a ton of bug fixes and adds a few new features. Gemini may also be replacing Gemini sooner than we thought.
In the previous beta post, we talked about Gemini being the default assistant on cars soon. Today, Google just officially declared that the native Google Assistant is shutting down for an upgraded AI assistant called Gemini. It’s been almost 10 years since Google Assistant launched. It has ben the default assistant for phones, and especially for cars with Android Auto.
Google says,
Over the coming months, we’re upgrading more users on mobile devices from Google Assistant to Gemini; and later this year, the classic Google Assistant will no longer be accessible on most mobile devices.
Additionally, we’ll be upgrading tablets, cars and devices that connect to your phone, such as headphones and watches, to Gemini. We’re also bringing a new experience, powered by Gemini, to home devices like speakers, displays and TVs. We look forward to sharing more details with you in the next few months. Until then, Google Assistant will continue to operate on these devices.
However, the minimum system requirements to run Gemini is 2 GB of RAM or more, running Android 10 and up. So cars may get a lowered version of Gemini, as most car head units have a lower memory and Android version.
What’s new in Android Auto 14?
Android Auto 14 introduces a host of bug fixes alongside several new features. The software development team has addressed numerous issues to improve your overall experience.
Notable fixes include resolving the annoying issue of no audio after the update, ensuring your music and podcasts play without interruption. The problem of audio stuttering during wireless connections has been corrected, providing a more stable experience. Additionally, the Sirius XM menu now functions properly.
Critical improvements also include fixes for WhatsApp messages not sending and Gboard resizing unexpectedly during use. The error message stating “Your phone doesn’t support 5GHz Wi-Fi Connections” has been eliminated, enhancing wireless compatibility. The issue with icons appearing against a white background has been resolved to boost the interface’s visual appeal. This overview highlights the major bug fixes in Android Auto 14, with further details available on additional improvements.
Users have also noted problems with GPS signal loss and reduced location accuracy, particularly on Oppo devices. There is frustration over the safety feature that prevents passengers from entering search terms while the car is moving. Furthermore, many still encounter basic connectivity issues despite trying various cables, suggesting that these challenges may arise from a mix of hardware and software incompatibilities.
Here’s a breakdown:
Issue: Since the recent December 2024 Android 15 feature drop I have had no Spotify audio via Android auto. I have been unable to test with other apps audio so may not be limited to Spotify.
Recently after an update I noticed that Wireless Android Auto stutters while playing music or maps. I deleted the update, reinstalled it same result. Deleted the phone and stereo from my car and phone. Reestablish connections same results. When just connected over Bluetooth it works great. Also when wired works great but when Wireless it stutters. It did not do this prior to the update. The display is not affected just the sound.
- Audio Glitches:
- The frustrating “No audio on Android Auto after recent update” issue has been addressed. This fix ensures that your audio streams smoothly, allowing you to enjoy your music and podcasts without interruption.
- Similarly, “Audio stutters when connected wirelessly” has also been resolved, offering a more stable and enjoyable wireless experience.
- Application-Specific Fixes:
- Issues with the Sirius XM menu, where it wasn’t functioning as expected, have been corrected.
- “WhatsApp messages not being sent” and “Gboard shrinks while using Android Auto” were also fixed.
When I connected to bluetooth to my phone the Android auto shows your phone is not supporting 5GHz WiFi connections
After some update, all AA icons changed to these yucky ones. Square icons with white background, just terrible.
- Connectivity and Display Enhancements:
- The “Error displayed ‘Your phone Doesn’t Support 5GHz Wi-Fi Connections'” problem is now resolved, broadening compatibility for wireless connections.
- “Icons visible with white background” was also fixed, improving the visual appeal of the interface.
When using GBoard and connecting to android auto, the keyboard sometimes becomes super tiny without the option to resize it. I tried all the usual stuff (reinstalling GBoard, clearing data and cache, clearing cache for Google play services, restarted the phone), but to no avail.
- The Android Auto team has addressed a fix for the following issues:
- [Auto] WhatsApp messages not being sent with Android Auto
- [Auto] Gboard shrinks while using Android Auto
These fixes demonstrate the Android Auto team’s responsiveness to user feedback and their dedication to resolving reported problems.
Android’s February 2025 security patch addressed persistent issues with audio output and intermittent Bluetooth connectivity. This update ensures that the audio systems in your car function as expected and that your devices connect reliably.
Possible fixes in Android Auto 14
While many issues have been resolved, some remain under investigation in the previous update. Users of the Pixel 9 Pro have reported Android Auto disconnections. The Android Auto team requires more bug reports to effectively diagnose and resolve this issue. These issues may have been fixed in AA v14.
With the release of Android 15, some users are encountering connection problems. Call audio not being heard on the Pixel 9 is another issue under investigation. Screen freezing issues with Xiaomi phones are being actively investigated. More bug reports are needed. These may have also been resolved.
- Pixel 9 Pro Disconnections:
- Users of the Pixel 9 Pro have reported Android Auto disconnections.
- Android 15 Connection Issues:
- With the release of Android 15, some users are encountering connection problems.
- Pixel 9 Call Audio:
- Call audio not being heard on the Pixel 9 is another issue under investigation.
- Xiaomi Phone Screen Freezing:
- Screen freezing issues with Xiaomi phones are being actively investigated.
New features in Android Auto 14
Android Auto 13.9 stable adds critical feature for temperature control and AC control. You can now set the temperature to high, low, or turn off directly from Android Auto interface in eligible devices.
APK Breakdown, commonly known as APK Teardown, is a thorough examination of Android application packages (APK) to uncover hidden features, upcoming changes, and potential future developments. This series dives deep into the code and resources of popular Android apps, offering insights that go beyond what’s visible on the surface.
We found the following code in the latest stable update.
<public type=”string” name=”control_temperature_hi” id=”0x7f150442″ /> <public type=”string” name=”control_temperature_lo” id=”0x7f150443″ /> <public type=”string” name=”control_temperature_off” id=”0x7f150444″ />
We found the following code for AC control the latest update.
<public type=”string” name=”control_ac_off” id=”0x7f150442″ />
<public type=”string” name=”control_ac_on” id=”0x7f150443″ />
<public type=”string” name=”control_auto” id=”0x7f150444″ />
<public type=”string” name=”control_sync” id=”0x7f150445″ />
New windshield defrost feature addded to Android Auto
<public type=”drawable” name=”gs_windshield_defrost_front_vd_theme_24″ />
<public type=”drawable” name=”gs_windshield_defrost_rear_vd_theme_24″/>
<public type=”string” name=”control_defrost_front”/>
<public type=”string” name=”control_defrost_rear”/>
New Android Auto Maps app or feature
Google is potentially testing a new maps feature or app for Android Auto. Here WeGo maps is already supported for cars.
<public type=”string” name=”EGMM_MAPS_APP_NAME”/>
<public type=”string” name=”EGMM_MAPS_APP_NAME_DEV”/>
<public type=”string” name=”EGMM_MAPS_APP_NAME_DOGFOOD”/>
<public type=”string” name=”EGMM_MAPS_APP_NAME_FISHFOOD”/>
<public type=”string” name=”EGMM_MAPS_APP_NAME_PREVIEW”/>
Download Android Auto 14 Beta APK
New Android Auto 14.0.151144 beta APK is now available for download. Get the APK and sideload onto your phone. Or, sign up for beta and get it officially from the Google Play Store.
- Android Auto APK 14 stable (arm64)
Sign up for Android Auto Beta
The Android Auto beta sign up is now available on Play Store. However, the latest version takes some time to reflect as it is a phased update. As an alternative, download APK from above or sign up for beta version here.
Download Android Auto from Play Store
The official Android Auto listing is now available on Play Store. However, the latest version takes some time to reflect as it is a phased update.
How to troubleshoot Android Auto?
If you’re experiencing problems with Android Auto, get the latest update. Ensure that your Android Auto app, your phone’s operating system, and your car’s infotainment system are all up to date. If you’re using a wired connection, try a different, high-quality USB cable. A simple restart of your phone and car’s infotainment system can often resolve temporary glitches. Clearing the Android Auto app’s cache and data can sometimes fix persistent issues. Verify that your phone and car are compatible with Android Auto. Make sure your phone is not set to only use 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi if you are attempting to use wireless android auto.
Android’s February 2025 security patch addressed persistent issues with audio output and intermittent Bluetooth connectivity. Upgrade your device to latest security patch.
