The recent sound problems in Android Auto have tested the patience of many Google Pixel phone users, who are encountering bugs that directly affect their driving experience. Following the latest software update on these devices, Google's infotainment system appears to have gone 'mute', generating frustration for those who rely on features such as the playing music or navigation directions.
What is happening? Users have reported on various forums that when connecting their phones to their car systems via Android Auto, the sound simply disappears. Apps like Spotify, TuneIn, and even Google Maps directions stop outputting any audio at all. This issue primarily affects the Pixel 6, Pixel 8, and Pixel 9 models, although some reports indicate that it could extend to other devices.
Possible causes of the problem
According to user complaints, The bug appears to be related to the recent update known as Pixel Feature Drop, which arrived alongside a security patch in December. This update, designed to introduce improvements and solve errors, seems to have had the opposite effect when it comes to sound on Android Auto.
Interestingly, the problem occurs both when using connections by USB cable as wireless. However, some Internet users point out that the lack of audio could only be linked to the connection by cable, suggesting that testing the connection Bluetooth could be an alternative for some affected people.
Are there any temporary solutions?
While waiting for an official statement from Google or an update that resolves the problem definitively, some users have shared Tricks and steps to try to solve the situation temporarily. Among the most common recommendations are:
- Update applications and operating system: Make sure all apps, including Android Auto, are on the latest version from Google Play.
- Restart the device: A simple reboot may restore sound in some cases.
- Disconnect and reconnect Bluetooth: Turn off Bluetooth and turn it back on after a few seconds.
It has also been suggested that Uninstall and reinstall Android Auto, clear the app's cache and data, or even try another app. USB cable If you use this connection, these could be useful measures. In extreme cases, some users have chosen to make a 'downgrade', that is, returning to a previous version of the operating system. If you decide to follow this option, remember to make a Backup of all your data to avoid losing important information.
When will Google fix this problem?
For now, Google has not released an official patch to fix this bug., although it has been confirmed on the support forums that they are already working on it. This leaves affected users in an awkward situation, especially if they rely on Android Auto for their daily lives. The recommendation for those who have not yet installed the latest update is to avoid doing so until the problem is solved.
On the other hand, some users have reported that the problem resolves spontaneously after several days without taking any specific action, suggesting that it could be a intermittent error in software.
If you have one of the affected models and rely on Android Auto, you might consider using alternative methods How to connect audio directly by Bluetooth without using the Android Auto interface, at least until a definitive solution is released.
A non-isolated failure. This issue is not the first time it has occurred with recent Android Auto updates or Pixel devices. In other cases, similar errors have arisen due to short testing periods in beta versions, leaving little room for detecting and fixing bugs before official release.
Owners of cars that do not directly support Android Auto may also experience additional difficulties, which further complicates this scenario for some users.
Let's hope that Google acts quickly to solve this problem that affects so many Android Auto users around the world, allowing them to once again enjoy all the functions of this system without problems. Until then, all that remains is to follow the temporary measures and, if possible, avoid updating if your device does not already have this error.