Android users with older phones may have to say goodbye to Android Auto. Google has confirmed that the Android Auto 15.5 update will no longer support devices running Android 8 (Oreo), marking the end of an era that has lasted nearly eight years.

According to 9to5Google, Android Auto now requires Android 9 (Pie) or higher to install and receive new updates. This means that if you're still on Android 8.0 or 8.1, version 15.4 will be the last version you can download.

The change has already begun appearing in the beta program on Google Play, and is expected to be widely rolled out in the coming weeks. Android Auto may continue to work on Android 8 for a short time, but it will no longer receive bug fixes, new features, or security updates. And based on how Google has handled older versions, it's only a matter of time before it stops working completely.

The move isn’t too surprising, as Android 8 was released in 2017, and most popular apps have already stopped supporting the aging operating system. With so few Android 8 users left, maintaining compatibility only complicates software development.

If you’re still using an Android 8 device, check for system updates – if you can upgrade to Android 9, you’ll still have a chance to continue using Android Auto. If not, it’s time to upgrade to a newer smartphone. Even mid-range phones from the last few years are powerful enough to ensure compatibility with Android Auto for years to come, providing a more stable and smarter connected experience in the car.