Samsung’s Latest Galaxy Update Might Break Android Auto – How to Fix It
Samsung recently released a major update for its Galaxy devices, bringing a host of new features and improvements. However, some users have reported that the update has caused problems with Android Auto, the popular app that allows you to use your phone’s features in your car.
If you’re experiencing problems with Android Auto after updating your Galaxy phone, you’re not alone. There are a few potential solutions you can try to get things working again.
Common Issues After Galaxy Update
Here are some of the most common issues that users have reported after updating their Galaxy phones:
- Android Auto not connecting or connecting intermittently
- Android Auto crashing frequently
- Music or navigation not working properly
- Phone calls not working correctly
Troubleshooting Steps
Before you jump into any major troubleshooting, ensure your phone and car’s infotainment system are both updated. These updates may fix issues and improve compatibility. Once those are out of the way, try these steps:
1. Restart Your Phone and Car
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Restarting both your phone and car can help resolve minor glitches and reset the connection between your devices.
2. Check for Updates
It’s possible that Android Auto needs an update to be fully compatible with the latest Galaxy software. Check the Play Store for updates for Android Auto. You might need to update your car’s infotainment system too; check your car’s manual or manufacturer’s website for updates.
3. Reinstall Android Auto
If restarting and updating didn’t work, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling Android Auto. This will clear any corrupt files and reinstall the app from scratch.
4. Update USB Drivers
The USB drivers that allow your phone to communicate with your car’s infotainment system may be outdated. You can usually find the latest drivers on your phone’s manufacturer website.
5. Clear Cache and Data
If all else fails, you can try clearing the cache and data for Android Auto. This will reset the app to its default settings and may resolve any issues caused by corrupted data.
6. Change USB Port
Try using a different USB port in your car. If you have a car with multiple ports, make sure you’re using a compatible port. Some ports are only designed for charging, while others are intended for data transfer.
7. Disable Battery Optimization
Some Android phones may have battery optimization features enabled that could be preventing Android Auto from running smoothly. You may need to disable battery optimization for Android Auto. Here’s how:
- Go to your phone’s settings.
- Go to “Battery and device care”.
- Select “Battery”.
- Go to “Battery usage”.
- Select “Android Auto”.
- Disable “Battery optimization” if it’s enabled.
8. Check Permissions
Make sure Android Auto has the necessary permissions to access your phone’s microphone, contacts, and other essential features. Here’s how to check:
- Go to your phone’s settings.
- Select “Apps”.
- Find “Android Auto”.
- Select “Permissions”.
- Ensure all required permissions are enabled.
9. Factory Reset (Last Resort)
As a last resort, you can try a factory reset on your phone. This will delete all your data and settings, so back up your data first. A factory reset may fix deeper software-related issues.
10. Contact Support
If none of these troubleshooting steps work, you might need to contact Samsung or Android Auto support for assistance. They may have specific solutions for the issue you’re facing.
Alternatives to Android Auto
If you’re still having problems with Android Auto, consider these alternatives:
- Apple CarPlay: If you have an iPhone, Apple CarPlay offers a similar experience to Android Auto and works with many vehicles.
- Built-in Car Systems: Some cars come with their own infotainment systems that offer navigation, music, and other features without requiring a smartphone connection.
- Bluetooth Connection: You can connect your phone to your car using Bluetooth to play music and make phone calls, though this may lack the functionality of dedicated infotainment apps.
Stay Up-to-Date
Regularly checking for updates from both your phone manufacturer and Android Auto can help prevent similar issues from happening in the future. Staying updated keeps your devices working efficiently and allows for smoother integration.
