Phone calling is a core feature of Android Auto. It lets drivers stay in touch with their contacts without using their phones. Google Assistant handles voice commands so users can make calls and respond to messages without looking at the screen.
However, if you use Android Auto, you might know that phone calls often stop working. This issue occurred after updating the Google app that handles voice commands in Android Auto.
Android Auto needs an urgent update. After the last change made about a week ago, users are not able to make phone calls with voice commands. It is an undeniable fact that voice command is a very important safety feature when it comes to driving. Due to this issue, users may want to use their phones while driving, so it is urgent for Google to fix this issue as soon as possible.
User Reports Regarding Android Auto Voice Command Search Issue
Users on Google forums are reporting that Google Assistant keeps asking, “Who do you want to call?” even when they give the person's full name. It appears that Google Assistant no longer understands names. Texting still works fine, so the issue only affects voice-activated phone calls.
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This issue is not linked to a specific Android Auto version, vehicle model, or phone brand. The issue appears to be with the Google app. Users have tried common fixes like swapping cables, clearing cache and data, and force-updating the app with the latest APK. None of these fixes worked and the feature is still broken.
How Can Android Auto Users Manually Fix This Issue?
Google is likely working on a fix for this issue. However, as important as this feature is, we are going to share a workaround that should help fix the issue while we wait for Google to release an official fix.
Since the issue affects Google Assistant, the glitch is likely with the Google app. To fix this, try downgrading the Google app to an older version than last week’s version.
Google is aware of the bug and has requested more information. But don't expect a quick fix. Google typically takes weeks or months to fix Android Auto issues. This issue may be no exception.
The good news is that the Google app receives frequent updates. If Google gets wind of the reports, it may release a temporary fix in a few days. There is no official statement from Google yet. If you find a solution, please share it in the comments below.
If you want to update Android Auto to the latest version, the latest stable version is 12.5 and is available on the Google Play Store.