Google confirms Android Auto signal icon fix is rolling out to stable users
Google has officially confirmed that a repair for the missing cellular signal indicator in Android Auto is now distributing to the stable update track.
Key points
- Google confirmed the fix for the missing signal icon is rolling out after weeks of user reports.
- The update is reaching the stable track, with Android Auto 17.8 cited by users as the likely fix.
- The Android Auto beta program is currently full, though sideloading updates remains an option for some.
Google has confirmed that a fix for the missing cellular signal icon in Android Auto is actively rolling out to users. According to 9to5Google, the company addressed the issue after weeks of inconsistent reports and back-and-forth communication regarding the status of the display bug.
The cellular signal indicator in the corner of the Android Auto display has vanished for many users for several weeks. As Threat Times reported on October 16, Google had previously rolled out an update to restore these missing signal bars to in-car displays for a wider group of users.
Context and Background
A Google representative stated in a Reddit comment that the company is aware of the reports and is currently rolling out a fix. The representative noted that the repair is not yet widely available and may take time to reach every device.
Android Auto 17.8 appears to deliver the fix, at least in part, according to 9to5Google. This version is now rolling out via the stable track. User reports from the past day or two suggest that the fix has widely rolled out, though it is still not back for everyone.
Who is affected
The issue affects drivers whose Android Auto screens fail to show the phone’s current cellular connection status. The corner of the display is meant to show battery status, time, notifications, and cellular signal.
Users who want to receive the fix sooner can enroll in the Android Auto beta program, according to the Google representative. However, the beta program is currently full. 9to5Google notes that users can sideload updates at their own risk if they cannot join the beta.
What should you do?
Drivers experiencing the missing signal icon should check for updates to Android Auto 17.8 on the stable track. If the update has not appeared, users may monitor the rollout status or consider the beta program if it becomes available.
What to do and how to stay safe: Google
- Check for the latest Android Auto update in your device settings to ensure you have the stable release.
- Monitor the Android Auto beta program status if you wish to receive fixes earlier than the stable rollout.
- Consider sideloading updates only if you understand the risks and cannot wait for the official distribution.
- Verify that your in-car display settings are configured to show the status bar icons correctly.
Step-by-step guide: Mobile Device Security: How to Protect Data Beyond Passwords
General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
Which Android Auto version contains the fix for the missing signal icon?
Android Auto 17.8 seems to deliver the fix, at least in part, and is rolling out via the stable track.
Is the Android Auto beta program available for enrollment?
No, the Android Auto beta program is currently full, according to 9to5Google.
Can users sideload updates to get the fix?
Yes, users can sideload updates at their own risk, as noted by 9to5Google.
