Android Auto Ends Support for Phones Running Android 9 and 10

Millions of phones affected

The figures cited are large: roughly 93 million smartphones still run Android 9, or 3.1% of the global installed base, while about 170 million run Android 10, or 5.7%. Well-known models stuck on those versions, including the Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy Note 9, are directly concerned.

The move is awkward for owners because these phones still work. Some people may have to replace a handset that otherwise meets their needs, solely to keep using Android Auto in their car.

What users can do

Owners of a phone on Android 9 or 10 should first check whether an update to Android 11 is available. If none is offered, the only option for using Android Auto normally is to switch to a newer device.

In recent years, Android phones have benefited from longer software support, often around six or seven years on Google Pixel and Samsung models. For buyers, that makes update policy an increasingly important criterion when choosing a new phone, particularly a mid-range one.