Tech

Google expands Gemini rollout to Android Auto

The assistant is replacing Google Assistant in Android Auto, adding conversational follow-ups, message summaries, music requests and connected-app access.

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Owen Mercer
Markets and Finance Editor
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Source: Engadget · View original source
Car dashboard touchscreen displaying Android Auto apps, navigation, phone connection, and vehicle controls
Artificial intelligence

Google is rolling out its Gemini assistant more broadly across Android Auto, replacing the standard Google Assistant in the in-car platform. Android Auto provides hands-free access to navigation, messages, phone calls and entertainment while driving.

Engadget reported that Gemini can handle follow-up questions while retaining conversational context. Drivers can ask about places along a route and continue with questions about parking or reviews without repeating the location.

The assistant can also summarise group-chat notifications, draft replies, include an estimated time of arrival and translate messages into more than 40 languages, according to Google’s reported feature set. These functions are designed to reduce the need to handle a phone while driving.

Gemini can select music from broad descriptions such as “something upbeat” or “something mellow”, rather than requiring a specific song or playlist. It may also retrieve information from connected Gmail, Calendar and note-taking apps, including travel instructions or daily schedules.

Gemini had previously been available as an optional Android Auto assistant. Users can switch assistants through Android Auto’s connected-device settings, although the source does not confirm a universal rollout schedule, supported countries or device requirements. Access to connected apps may depend on permissions, app support and regional availability.

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