Wondering why some apps have grey icons in Android Auto? Learn the reasons behind this issue and how to resolve it for a better driving experience.For a few weeks now, Android Auto has started to display some icons in grey and there is a good reason for this.
If you notice that some Android Auto icons are occasionally turning pale, it’s not your imagination. Gray Android Auto icons are not a bug, but a feature.
Since Android Auto 12.2 , whose update arrived a couple of weeks ago, some Android Auto icons lose color as soon as we start driving and there is a good reason for it .
Why do some apps appear with a grey icon in Android Auto?
One of the main reasons why some apps appear with a grey icon in Android Auto is due to compatibility issues. Not all apps are optimized for Android Auto, which can result in the app appearing as a grey icon instead of its usual colorful icon.
If you’ve noticed that icons for specific apps change in Android Auto, sometimes turning black and white, you’re not imagining it. It’s Android Auto’s way of telling you that you can’t use that app at the moment, as it’s restricted.
Android Auto is prepared to restrict you from using certain apps while the car is running , for your own safety. This restriction also applies to the on-screen keyboard : with the car running, you can only use your voice to type.
When the car is running, some apps are no longer available and Android Auto now highlights them by turning their icon black and white.
Previously, Android Auto highlighted unavailable apps by overlaying a P icon on their icon, and earlier this year, the trend was to overlay a car icon.
How To Fix apps appear with a grey icon in Android Auto
When you try to open one of these apps while the car is running, the system displays the text ” Not available while driving” and refuses to open it. To do so, you must stop the car, which unlocks all apps and the on-screen keyboard.
- Clearing the cache of the affected app can sometimes resolve issues with grey icons. To do this, go to your device’s settings, select the app in question, and choose the option to clear the cache.
- Reinstall the app: If all else fails, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling the app from the Google Play Store. This can help to refresh the app’s settings and resolve any compatibility issues with Android Auto.
- Remember to keep your apps updated and ensure a stable internet connection for optimal performance in Android Auto.
In conclusion, grey icons for apps in Android Auto can be caused by compatibility issues, outdated versions, or poor internet connection.