Move over, Google Assistant—there’s a new AI co-pilot for your drive. Starting today, Google is rolling out its Gemini AI assistant to Android Auto, giving drivers access to a more conversational and capable voice assistant designed to handle directions, messages, errands, and more.
According to Guemmy Kim, Senior Director of Product & User Experience for Android for Cars, Gemini enables drivers to “speak naturally, have a back-and-forth conversation, and get more complex tasks done.” The announcement was made in a blog post published today.
How It Works
To use Gemini in your car:
- Download the Gemini app on your Android phone.
- When projecting Android Auto onto your car’s infotainment display, Gemini will appear as an option.
- Activate the assistant by:
- Saying “Hey Google”
- Pressing the mic button on the car screen
- Long-pressing the voice control button on the steering wheel
Gemini is exclusive to Android Auto for now—Google confirmed there are no plans for Apple CarPlay integration at this time.
What Gemini Can Do
Gemini promises a significant upgrade over traditional voice assistants. Drivers can:
- Find restaurants by cuisine or location.
- Send messages with ETA updates and emojis.
- Check calendars, create to-do lists, and retrieve addresses from emails.
- Perform all tasks hands-free, keeping eyes on the road.
Beyond practical tasks, Gemini can also engage in casual conversation, help brainstorm ideas, rehearse presentations, or teach something new—all within a continuous dialogue.
Expanding Across Platforms
Google has been aggressively integrating Gemini across its ecosystem—from Chrome and Google Maps to Nest and Google Home devices. Bringing Gemini to Android Auto marks one of the first steps into in-car AI experiences. Vehicles running Google’s built-in Android OS will be next; Polestar recently announced that a future software update will include Gemini in its electric sports cars.
Safety and Distraction Concerns
While Gemini aims to reduce the need for drivers to look at their phones, questions remain about whether conversational AI could become a distraction. Early research suggests that voice assistants create a moderate level of cognitive load, not negligible. As tech companies race to embed AI into vehicles, more studies will be needed to understand the impact on driver safety.
