Google has advised Android Auto users facing a frustrating disconnect issue to update to the latest version of the app. This glitch emerged earlier this summer following the rollout of Android Auto 17.2, with some users also reporting similar problems with version 17.1. However, investigations confirmed that the primary culprit was indeed version 17.2.
The recurring problem manifests as a disconnection from the Android Auto interface every few minutes, often occurring just moments after launching the app. Many users have noted that the application tends to freeze after approximately three minutes of use.
“After exactly three minutes, the wired connection would freeze, while the wireless connection would disconnect and reconnect. I was beginning to think there was something wrong with my head unit,” shared one user on the Google forums, where discussions about the issue have proliferated.
As a temporary solution, users discovered that downgrading to version 17.0 effectively resolved the connectivity issues, further emphasizing the problems introduced by versions 17.1 and 17.2. In response to the growing concerns, Google solicited additional feedback from users, leading to the conclusion of their investigation and the announcement of a fix.
Update Recommendations
“We are pleased to report that the team has implemented a fix,” stated a Google Community Specialist affiliated with the Android Auto team in a recent forum post. Users are encouraged to install at least version 17.4 to access the patch, while the latest stable release, version 17.5, was launched earlier this week. Although version 17.5 does not introduce any visible changes, it may contain further fixes and optimizations aimed at enhancing overall app performance.
Currently, the rollout of version 17.5 is ongoing through the Google Play Store. Since the stable channel was approved just this week, not all users will receive the update automatically. Most users searching for updates will likely find themselves downloading version 17.4. For those still using older versions, manual updates via APK installers are available.
In addition to these connectivity issues, Android Auto users have expressed dissatisfaction with the new AI-powered assistant, Gemini, which is set to replace Google Assistant next month. Feedback indicates that Gemini struggles with basic tasks, such as making phone calls, and has been linked to app crashes during use, even in critical applications while driving.
While Google continues to refine the experience, the rollout of Gemini has yet to meet user expectations, leaving many to hope for improvements in future updates.
