Gemini Begins Rolling Out to Android Auto Globally

Google is officially rolling out Gemini to Android Auto, replacing the Google Assistant for users who have already upgraded to the company’s next-generation AI assistant on their phones. The announcement came on Thursday as part of Google’s wider plan to phase out Google Assistant and transition all devices and platforms to Gemini.

By integrating Gemini into Android Auto, Google says drivers will be able to speak more naturally, carry on back-and-forth conversations, and complete more complex tasks while on the road. Android Auto projects navigation, messaging, music, and more from an Android phone onto a vehicle’s display.

This rollout has been expected since Google confirmed in May that Gemini would arrive on Android Auto before the end of the year.

With Gemini, drivers can ask detailed questions about nearby businesses or locations along their route. For example:
“Hey Google, I’m suddenly craving barbecue. Any good spots along my route that are open now near my destination?”
If a place looks promising, Gemini can offer additional details, such as popular dishes or whether a restaurant is dog-friendly.

Image Credits: Google

Gemini can also handle messaging tasks. Users can reply by voice, get summaries of text messages, or ask the assistant to send updates — such as letting a friend know they’re stuck in traffic and sharing an updated ETA. The assistant can also translate messages before sending them.

Drivers can even ask Gemini to access Gmail emails. Someone might say:
“I have a hotel booked for tonight. The address should be in my email. Can you check and navigate there?”
Gemini can locate the information and summarise unread messages if needed.

Music and entertainment are also supported. Users can ask Gemini for a curated playlist with specific criteria, such as:
“Can you make a three-hour upbeat road trip playlist that both me and the kids will enjoy?”
This works with services like YouTube Music, Spotify, and others.

Image Credits: Google

Google is also introducing a “Go Live” mode with Gemini, allowing users to start an open-ended conversation simply by saying:
“Hey Google, let’s chat.”
From there, drivers can brainstorm ideas, learn something new, or ask for travel tips. For example:
“I’m driving to St. Louis for a wedding. Can you be my tour guide and share some fun facts about the city?”
Users can continue the conversation with follow-up prompts, such as asking for gift ideas for the rehearsal dinner hosts.

Gemini is rolling out globally starting Thursday in 45 languages.

To access it, users must have the Gemini app active on their phone. A tooltip will appear on the car’s display once the upgrade is available. To use Gemini while driving, say “Hey Google,” then press the microphone button on the car’s screen or long-press the voice control button on the steering wheel.