Android Auto was first introduced in 2015 and was a way to use maps, navigation and music playback on Android smartphones without distractions. Users can access larger UI elements that will improve viewing quality. However, the company is now closing the Android app they created for phone screens.

Your phone’s Android Auto screen turns off and you cannot use it. The original Android app is now limited to car infotainment systems. This should come as no surprise, as it’s been several years since Google stopped offering a car-optimized UI in the app. Also, Android Auto for phone screens was already incompatible with Android 12 and a few days ago the program started showing messages that it would stop working soon. The change has become official and the program has completely stopped working even on phones with older versions of Android.

However, Google will not leave you without a choice. Instead, it is recommended that people use the Google Assistant control mode on their smartphone’s screen. The mod offers a similar UI with large items. However, this is still not a complete replacement.

You see, unlike Android Auto, it is not so easy to operate the Google Assistant driving mode as there is no special icon in the app bar. Ok, Google, you will need to enter a command like start driving mode. Another disadvantage is that the program cannot be used in landscape mode, which will be a disadvantage for most people. It supports most music services, but its user interface does not offer all the features.

Samsung is the only company to release a UI optimized for cars, but even that was discontinued after the release of Android Auto. Source