VW and Cupra block Android app access for older devices after update

Volkswagen and its performance brand Cupra have disabled remote‑control functions for their vehicle‑control apps on Android devices running Android 12 or older. The change was introduced in a recent software update without prior notice. Affected users can no longer check the electric‑vehicle charge status, pre‑condition the climate, or view the vehicle’s location from the app.

Cupra explained that Android 12 will lose official security support at the end of March 2025, and older versions are deemed insufficiently secure for the app’s functions. The restriction also applies to devices running custom, Google‑free Android systems, which are similarly blocked. The move reflects heightened security requirements for apps that interact with critical vehicle data.