How to fix the silent notifications bug on Android Auto

This guide explains how to fix a known Android Auto issue that prevents notification sounds from playing while using the app in the car. The bug, confirmed by Google, was introduced by a recent update and affects both Pixel and Galaxy devices. The guide is useful for users who use Android Auto and want to restore the functionality of sound notifications.

The problem manifests with notifications appearing on the screen without any sound, and with music being paused and then resumed for no reason. This can be particularly annoying for those listening to podcasts or music during their trips.

• Interested users: Android smartphone owners who use Android Auto.
• Android Auto version: 17.9 or later versions, including 18 and beta 18.1.

Prerequisites

• Smartphone with Android operating system
• Android Auto app installed on the device
• Connection to a car compatible with Android Auto
• Access to phone settings and Android Auto app settings

Procedure to fix the silent notifications issue on Android Auto

By following this guide, you will be able to temporarily remove the Android Auto update and disable automatic updates until an official patch is released.

• Step 1: Open the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
• Step 2: In the search bar at the top, type "Android Auto" and press Enter.
• Step 3: Find the Android Auto app developed by Google LLC and tap it to open the app page.
• Step 4: Scroll down until you find the "Uninstall" or "Uninstall updates" option (depending on the Play Store version).
• Step 6: Once the updates are uninstalled, scroll down until you find the "Automatic updates" option.
• Step 7: Select "Do not automatically update the app" to disable automatic updates.
• Step 8: Restart your Android device to ensure the changes take effect.

After completing these steps, Android Auto will revert to the version before the problematic update. Remember to periodically check the Google Play Store for any official updates that fix the bug.

Verification and Troubleshooting

At the end of this guide, you will be able to verify if the silent notifications issue on Android Auto is present and apply the available temporary solution.

Problem Verification

• Make sure the device is connected to the car's audio system.
• Wait for a notification, such as a message or a call.
• Observe if the notification appears on the screen without sound and if the music is paused and then resumed.

Temporary Solution

If the problem is confirmed, follow these steps to apply the temporary solution:

• Search for Android Auto.
• Select the app from the search results.
• Press Uninstall to remove the latest update.
• After uninstalling, reinstall Android Auto from the same page.
• To prevent future automatic updates, open your device's Settings.
• Go to Apps and notifications.
• Select Android Auto.
• Press Automatic updates.
• Choose the option Do not automatically update.

Problem Reporting

To help Google resolve the issue more quickly, report it officially:

• Visit the Android Auto support forum.
• Describe the problem in detail, including your device model and Android Auto version.
• Submit the report.

At the end of this guide, you will have understood how to recognize and temporarily manage the silent notifications bug on Android Auto. You will also have learned how to report the problem to Google to contribute to a faster solution.

Educational Summary

• The silent notifications bug on Android Auto is caused by a recent update.
• The problem affects both Pixel and Galaxy devices.
• Reporting the problem to Google can speed up the release of a patch.

Call to Action

If you are experiencing this problem, follow the steps indicated to temporarily manage the situation and report the bug to Google. Keep an eye on Android Auto updates on the Play Store to be ready to install the official patch as soon as it is available.