Subaru adds Android Automotive, Snapdragon chip to Outback

Many automakers are deciding whether to integrate platforms like Android Auto or Apple CarPlay into their vehicles, or create their own in-house software. For example, General Motors is going to remove Android Auto and CarPlay in its future cars. Then, there’s Tesla, the company that built a custom infotainment system but is now reportedly considering adding CarPlay. Another problem is Android Automotive, the Google operating system that runs on cars independently of connected smartphones. Subaru confirmed that its next-generation infotainment system will use Android Automotive, supporting Android Auto and CarPlay, and has only shared key details and specifications.

Subaru’s new infotainment system will facilitate access to Google services without a connected smartphone. subaru said in a press release this week (via 9to5GoogleThe automaker didn’t mention Android Automotive by name, but it did say cars.com It was said in August that the Google operating system will indeed power the 2026 Outback. Android Automotive will give 2026 Subaru Outback owners the ability to control media and select apps with their voice using Google Assistant.

The 2026 Outback is also powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Automotive processor, which works in conjunction with Android Automotive to deliver a Google-infused experience. Subaru has doubled the amount of memory and storage available in its infotainment system, to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The company says map swipes are three times faster, audio screen transitions are six times faster and general scrolling is twice as fast.

On the hardware side, drivers can see a 12.1-inch display with Adreno GPU rendering graphics. It supports Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2 and surprisingly, a Spectra ISP that shows live camera feeds in HDR with better performance in low light.

Android Automotive will handle in-car controls for the 2026 Outback, including cabin and seating climate control and drive modes. Users can create personalized profiles to save their preferences and common locations. Subaru also says the Android Automotive Experience allows for automatic updates “which helps keep the software current.”

Subaru’s 2026 Outback will use Android Automotive for the built-in infotainment system, and it will work even without a smartphone present for processing. However, functionality doesn’t come at the expense of versatility. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support is still available wirelessly, so drivers can choose their preferred in-car experience.

Subaru calls it a “next-generation infotainment package,” hinting that Android Automotive will expand to the rest of the automaker’s lineup in the future. As companies like GM and Rivian push to discontinue their car infotainment systems, Subaru’s adoption of Android Automotive is good news for Android users.