In an exciting development for Android Auto users, Google has quietly begun the rollout of Gemini, its new AI assistant. Currently, this update seems to be reaching beta testers first. While the exact version of Android Auto that Gemini is operating on remains unclear, anticipation among users has been building since CEO Sundar Pichai announced during an earnings call in April that Gemini would eventually replace the existing Google Assistant in vehicles linked to smartphones.
After months of waiting, reports on platforms like Reddit suggest that several Android Auto users are beginning to see the Gemini update. This transition appears to be server-side, with the rollout primarily affecting those who are participating in the beta and using Android Auto 15.6 or 15.7. Notably, users of the Pixel 10 Pro XL have confirmed their experience with Gemini on various car displays, further indicating the update's selective availability.
The rollout of Gemini signifies a major enhancement in the capabilities of Android Auto. Demonstrations, including a recent collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, showcase how well the large language model (LLM) performs in automotive settings. Gemini is designed to understand natural language commands, retain context during conversations, and even handle follow-up questions, making interactions feel as seamless as those with Gemini Live on mobile devices.
While the experience with Gemini has generally been positive, there are some drawbacks worth noting. One user reported that Gemini struggles to recognize common nicknames—such as "mother," "wife," or "boss." Despite this limitation, users have reported that the overall experience has been smooth and intuitive.
As users receive the Gemini update, they will notice a new Gemini settings section within the Settings menu of Android Auto. Here, users can toggle options such as “Interrupt Live Responses” and “Share Precise Location” on or off. It's important to note that these settings will be enabled by default, allowing users to customize their experience according to their preferences.
Are you one of the lucky Android Auto users who has received the Gemini update? We’d love to hear your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments below. To stay updated on the latest news and exclusive reports from Android Authority, consider adding us as a preferred source in Google Discover and Google Search.