Android Auto Autoplay Can Be Stopped With One Toggle, but Bluetooth Can Still Trigger Spotify

Engadget reported that the behavior can occur over USB or wirelessly, including through an adapter. When the phone connects, the last media session picks up at the volume set during the previous drive. That can interrupt a morning commute or play content parents do not want children to hear on a school run.

The fix has become simpler than in the past, when drivers relied on workarounds and extra apps. Engadget reported that turning off Start music automatically solves the problem for many drivers and is the first fix listed on Spotify's support forums.

If the toggle does not stop playback, the trigger may sit at the Bluetooth level rather than inside Android Auto. Android Auto uses Bluetooth for phone calls and for the initial handshake between phone and car. Engadget suggested testing a workaround that removes the phone from the car's Bluetooth memory and reconnects using USB only, where the vehicle setup allows it. The report said results vary by car, phone and connection type.

Spotify users have reported continued autoplay after disabling the Android Auto setting, with community forum threads dating to 2022 still active, according to Engadget. Spotify's support team said the behavior depends on how a given Bluetooth device interacts with Spotify's API. Spotify cannot always prevent a connected device from sending a play command when it reconnects, powers on or resumes a media session.

Engadget reported that any paired Bluetooth device, including headphones and speakers, can affect autoplay. Drivers should check whether the behavior happens with only one device and test another speaker, headset or vehicle if possible. Keeping Spotify, the phone's operating system and device firmware updated may reduce connection glitches, but the report said there is no guaranteed universal fix when the command comes from the Bluetooth accessory.

Some drivers find success through Android Auto settings, others through Spotify's app permissions, and many report that neither option works consistently for their car or phone, Engadget reported. Removing Spotify from Android Auto can stop access from the car display, but it also removes Spotify from that screen. The report recommended starting with the Start music automatically toggle, then trying the Bluetooth unpairing step before removing the app from Android Auto entirely.