Once Android 11 comes out, the list of phones that can use Android Auto wirelessly will grow significantly. Google has updated Android Auto’s FAQ page (as noted by 9to5Google) to add that almost all devices installed with the upcoming mobile OS will have the ability to connect to compatible in-car entertainment systems without a cable.
The updated page also mentions that your phone must support 5 GHz WiFi for a wireless connection to work. Most modern smartphones already can, so you won’t have a problem unless you have an older or low-end to mid-range device, some of which can only connect to 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. However, keep in mind that the EU has additional legal requirements when it comes to using 5GHz Wi-Fi in cars.
The tech giant launched wireless mode for Android Auto back in 2018, but support for the feature was quite limited. Aside from the fact that your car manufacturer must already have rolled out wireless compatibility to your infotainment system, you must also have a compatible phone. Only Pixel and Nexus owners were able to use the feature when it first became available, although Samsung released an update last year that gave its flagship devices the ability. Additionally, only a few vehicles currently offer Android Auto wireless support, with Ford and BMW announcing the option for current and future models last year.
This article by Mariella Moon originally appeared on Engadget.