The Unresolved Android Auto Update: A Blow to Audio Quality on Select Head Units

The Android Auto ecosystem has recently been hit by an update that has left users frustrated and disappointed. The update, which was supposed to bring several improvements, has instead led to a significant degradation in audio quality on some head units. This issue has been widely reported by users on platforms like Reddit and Google’s own forums. The problem seems to be particularly noticeable after using Google Assistant or making and answering phone calls on the hands-free unit.

What’s even more concerning is Google’s response to the issue. According to multiple reports, Google has deemed the problem “infeasible” to fix. This has left users in a lurch, as the tech giant has suggested that those affected should contact the developer zjinnova for resolution. This is perplexing because the issue started after an Android Auto app update, making it Google’s responsibility to provide a fix.

The bug is not just a minor inconvenience; it has a substantial impact on the user experience. For many, the car is a sanctuary where they listen to music, podcasts, or take important calls. Poor audio quality can ruin this experience and make commutes or long drives far less enjoyable. The issue has been highlighted in various reports, including articles from 9to5Google and Android Police, confirming its widespread nature.

Users have taken to social media and forums to express their concerns and seek solutions. Some have even tried rolling back to previous versions of Android Auto, but with limited success. The audio quality issue seems to persist, leaving users with no other option but to wait for an official fix, which, as of now, seems unlikely to come from Google.

In summary, the recent Android Auto update has led to a significant drop in audio quality on some head units, affecting the overall user experience. Google’s reluctance to address the issue has only added to the frustration, leaving users to look for alternative solutions. This situation serves as a reminder that even updates from major tech companies can sometimes do more harm than good, and it raises questions about how responsive these companies are to user-reported issues.

About the author

William Johnson

William J. has a degree in Computer Graphics and is passionate about virtual and augmented reality. He explores the latest in VR and AR technologies, from gaming to industrial applications.