Android's Auto companion, Gemini, ready to provide hands-free assistance
In a significant move, Google is set to introduce Gemini AI as the new voice assistant on Android Auto, offering a more reliable, advanced, and natural voice interaction experience. This change comes as Google aims to unify its AI systems for consistent performance across devices, addressing Google Assistant's previous limitations in in-car use.
The transition is evident in the latest Android Auto 14.8 beta, where the "Assistant" settings have been renamed to "Digital Assistant," though Gemini is not yet fully integrated. Users can expect a full rollout of Gemini replacing Google Assistant on Android Auto before the end of 2025.
Alongside the AI transition, Google Auto is set to receive a number of user experience and control features. These include adaptive color schemes and a forthcoming light mode, allowing users to choose brighter UI themes for improved usability and style. Additionally, Google Maps shortcuts for quick navigation to pre-set locations like Work and Home are being introduced, improving the convenience of use.
Future vehicle control integrations are also on the horizon, such as the ability to adjust car air conditioning directly via the Android Auto interface, similar to Apple CarPlay's approach.
Gemini AI is designed to be used while driving with hands on the steering wheel and will offer features like voice-to-text messaging translation in 40 languages. The primary use case for Gemini AI could be in cars, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road.
The new Gemini Live integration will allow for a "conversation" with the AI within the car, and it will connect with popular apps like YouTube Music, Spotify, Gmail, and Messages for hands-free messaging. Gemini AI can also provide summaries of user reviews for restaurants and even help find a place to eat while on the road.
Google plans to showcase these features at the Google I/O event beginning May 20. The new UI for Gemini AI allows for conversational interactions with the AI, and the features will be available to cars with Google built-in after they are released to users.
However, it's important to note that the addition of more screens in cars could potentially be a distraction. Similarly, the Gemini Live integration may also be a source of distraction while driving. Google is encouraging users to use these features responsibly and prioritize safety while driving.
In summary, Gemini AI on Android Auto promises a smarter, more consistent, and natural voice assistant experience, complemented by design enhancements and deeper vehicle system integrations that enhance driving convenience and safety. The new features will be available to users in the coming months.
- The upcoming voice assistant on Android Auto, Gemini AI, is designed to be used while driving, offering voice-to-text messaging translation in 40 languages, which could be primary in cars, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road.
- Google Auto, in addition to the AI transition, will receive user experience and control features, such as adaptive color schemes, a light mode, Google Maps shortcuts for quick navigation, and future vehicle control integrations like adjusting car air conditioning via the Android Auto interface.
- The new Gemini Live integration will enable a "conversation" with the AI within the car, allowing hands-free interaction with popular apps like YouTube Music, Spotify, Gmail, and Messages, as well as providing summaries of user reviews for restaurants and helping find a place to eat while on the road.
- Google is also aware of the potential distractions that the addition of more screens in cars or the Gemini Live integration might cause while driving and encourages users to use these features responsibly and prioritize safety.
