Google continues to promise enhancements for Android Auto users, generating excitement with each update. While new features typically roll out gradually, keeping Android Auto up-to-date remains crucial for stability and reliability. Even updates without apparent changes can include performance refinements and fixes.
Recently promoted to the stable production channel without a preceding beta release, Android Auto 11.8 marks the second time Google has skipped the beta phase, making it available for all users to download.
Google distributes Android Auto updates through the Google Play Store in stages, meaning some users may receive the update sooner than others. Alternatively, users eager for the latest version can manually download and install it, a process known as sideloading. By obtaining the Android Auto 11.8 APK installer, users can initiate the update on their devices.
Noteworthy enhancements in Android Auto include support for phone icons and wallpapers. This recent refinement aims to create consistency across devices, syncing the stock icon pack and home screen wallpaper with the Android Auto screen. Consequently, transitioning from a mobile device to a car becomes more seamless, with the phone’s stock icon theme and background mirrored on Android Auto.
Although initially announced for Samsung phones, similar integration has been observed on other Android devices, such as Xiaomi. However, non-Samsung support appears incomplete, with users reporting broken Android Auto icons after enabling this feature.
Additionally, Google continues to refine Android Auto with fixes, addressing issues like voice command breakdowns in WhatsApp. While this bug stemmed from the latest WhatsApp version on the Google Play Store, Google collaborated with WhatsApp to diagnose and rectify the glitch. Users experiencing voice command issues in WhatsApp with Android Auto should update the messaging app to receive the fix.
