Google’s Gemini is now on Android Auto

(The Verge) – Starting today, Google is rolling out its Gemini AI assistant to Android Auto users, allowing drivers access to a “truly conversational” voice assistant who can help with directions, messages, and errands. With Gemini, “you can just speak naturally, have a back and forth conversation and get more complex tasks done,” says Guemmy Kim, Senior Director of Product & User Experience, Android for Cars, in a blog post published today.

Customers will need to download the Gemini app on their Android phone, which they will then see on their car’s infotainment display while projecting Android Auto. They can then activate the AI assistant by saying “Hey Google,” pressing the mic button on their car screen, or long pressing the voice control button on their steering wheel.

To be sure, Gemini is not available for users Apple CarPlay, nor will it be anytime soon. Google spokesperson Sofia Giovannello said the company didn’t have any updates to share on that front.