Gemini begins rolling out Android Auto globally

Gemini will replace Google Assistant in Android Auto, the smartphone display technology built into millions of cars, trucks and SUVs. Google announced the move on Thursday, noting that Gemini will begin rolling out to Android Auto users who have upgraded from Google Assistant to Gemini on their phones.

By bringing Gemini to Android Auto, Google allows users to speak naturally and have a back-and-forth conversation to complete more complex tasks on the go, according to the company. Android Auto is an application that runs on a user’s phone that wirelessly connects and displays features such as navigation, music, and messaging from an Android smartphone to the car’s display.

This rollout doesn’t come as a surprise, as the change is part of Google’s plans to replace Google Assistant with Gemini across all its devices and platforms. Company Announced in May That Gemini is coming to Android Auto this year.

With Gemini, users can ask questions about businesses along their route to find something specific. For example, users can ask something like: “Hey Google, I need your help. I’m suddenly craving BBQ. Are there any good places along my route open now, near my destination?” If the place sounds interesting, Gemini can provide more information about the place, such as details about the restaurant’s most popular dish or whether the establishment is dog-friendly.

Users can also reply to messages using Gemini and get summaries of texts. For example, you can ask Gemini to let your friend know that you’re stuck in traffic and add an ETA to the message. Or you can ask Gemini to translate the message into a different language before sending it.

Gemini also allows users to access their Gmail emails while driving. For example, a user could ask something like: “I’ve booked a hotel for tonight. I think the address is in my email. Can you check and navigate there?” Gemini can also give you a summary of unread emails.

Google suggests that Gemini can help people get the right driving soundtrack by asking them to create a playlist with specific instructions like, “Can you give me a playlist for a road trip? Ideally, an upbeat song, about 3 hours long, that’s good for me and the kids.” This works with streaming services like YouTube Music, Spotify, and more.

Additionally, Google says users will be able to go live with Gemini to chat about anything by saying “Hey Google, let’s talk.” From there, you can exchange ideas or learn something new.

For example, you could say, “Okay, I’m driving to St. Louis for a wedding. Can you be my tour guide and share some fun facts about it?” He then followed up with further instructions: “Thanks for teaching me all about St. Louis. Changing topics, rehearsal dinner at his parents’ house, and I’d like to buy them a little something. What are some good ideas.”

Gemini begins rolling out Android Auto globally starting Thursday in 45 languages.

To access it, you have to make sure you are using the Gemini app on your phone. You will see a hint on your car’s display once it is available to you. To use it, you have to say “Hey Google” and then press the microphone button on your car’s screen or long-press the voice control button on the steering wheel.