Google is bringing AI conversations to drivers in 45 countries with an update to Android Auto that adds Gemini software as a passenger. The ambitious global rollout of the AI chatbot technology to a potential 250 million cars equipped with Android Auto software will be available to those who have upgraded Google Assistant to Gemini AI on their phone.
Once enabled, Google Gemini will be able to engage in hands-free conversations with drivers who want to do things like get recommendations for activities at their destination, sort through emails, or compose and edit texts while driving.
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In a blog post, the company offered five ways to use the new features. These include asking for recommended stops while on a route, composing or editing messages (including translations for 40 languages), looking for things in your Gmail inbox or Google Calendar, creating music playlists and practicing a speech on the way to, say, a wedding rehearsal dinner.
Whether it’s a good idea to do those things at highway speeds is a separate debate. While the features are hands-free, Google does not address the distraction factor of, for example, conversationally building a playlist while driving down the highway.
A spokesperson told CNET that Google will release research that addresses safety concerns around hands-free technology, but didn’t give a time frame.
«Our automotive products are designed and built on safety principles grounded in government and industry distraction guidelines, as well as our own deep research,» said Greg Fitch, head of safety and user experience for Android for Cars.
«We’ve extensively tested Gemini’s impact on the driving experience, both in the lab and on the road. With rigorous third-party testing now complete, we are preparing to release our findings,» Fitch said.
How Gemini works in Android Auto
Google says that accessing Gemini happens when you say «Hey Google,» hit the mic button in Android Auto, or do a long press on the voice control button if your steering wheel has one.
Google says it will add more features and capabilities in the future. For now, the Gemini update can access information from Google Calendar, Google Tasks, Google Keep, Samsung Calendar, Samsung Reminder, and Samsung Notes, with additional third-party app support expected in the future.