Google recently updated the system requirements for Android Auto, making it incompatible with devices running Android 8 Oreo and older. Although the official Google Play Store listing still mentions Android 8 as a supported version, the app now requires Android 9 or higher to function properly.
This change is likely due to Google's focus on introducing new features and improving the overall Android Auto user experience. These advances often require newer operating systems with advanced capabilities.
For users with devices running Android 8, this means they will no longer be able to use Android Auto. Although it is possible to install older versions of the application, they will eventually become obsolete and may not work as intended.
Users are recommended to update their devices to Android 9 or later to continue using Android Auto and its latest features and improvements.