Cars with Google built in are getting an upgrade. Yes, the Google Assistant will be replaced with Gemini through a software upgrade, letting users do more with just voice commands and natural interaction. With Gemini, you can speak naturally to get more done with your favorite apps, brainstorm ideas, and even ask for vehicle-specific info thanks to Gemini’s integration with your car, says Google.
Gemini Use Cases on Cars with Google built-in
Natural Language Interaction:
You can have a natural conversation with Gemini, hands-free. Some of use cases include:
- Find the perfect pit stop – Ask, “I need to grab lunch, find some highly rated sit-down restaurants along the way. I’m not in a rush, oh, and I’d like to eat outside.” Gemini will use its Maps add-on to find the perfect spot
- Know what’s ahead – Gemini will offer real-time updates about your journey from Google Maps, empowering you to make informed decisions and drive with confidence. Ask, “I’m driving by the stadium. Is there an event happening, and should I avoid it because of traffic?” And if you see a traffic disruption, help others by reporting, “I see an accident in the right lane.”
- Messages – With just a command, you can let Gemini summarize the messages for you and reply to them. Tell Gemini, “Reply to Jane that I’m on my way and add my ETA.” And if you change your mind, you can edit your message without starting over: “Actually, also ask her if I should pick up dessert.“
- Play Music – By just asking Gemini, “Play upbeat ’70s folk-rock for a mountain drive, but skip the slow ballads,” it will play the specific flavor of music you’ve asked for with the help of apps like YouTube Music.
Adjust settings and get vehicle-specific info
Google says it has worked closely with automakers to integrate Gemini deeply with vehicles’ systems. You can ask questions like:
- How should I prepare my car for an automatic car wash?
- What’s my current battery level? (EV cars)
- What’s my battery on arrival?
- Are there any cafes near my destination while I charge?
And get tailored answers based on your car model and insights. Additionally, simply saying, “It’s foggy and freezing in here” to Gemini will allow it to understand your intent and automatically turn up the heat and activate the defroster.
Learning and brainstorming while driving
You can also use Gemini Live (beta) mode in your car, allowing you to have real-time conversations while driving. It can be activated by saying, “Hey Google, let’s talk,” to start a free-flowing interaction. Some use cases include the following, but are not limited to:
- Get facts about the destination – Tell Gemini: “I’m heading to Lake Tahoe (destination). Can you share some history and fun facts?” It will fetch some interesting facts, and you can continue the conversation with further questions/thoughts.
- Brainstorm activities: You can try a prompt like “I want to go on some hikes while I’m in Tahoe. Can you recommend some good options?” Follow up with, “What are the views like on the Rubicon Trail?” Likewise, you can use Gemini Live as your thought partner and brainstorm events while driving.
Google also assured that Gemini on cars will evolve by giving drivers the ability to safely access their info in apps like Gmail, Calendar, and Google Home.
Availability
Gemini will roll out in cars with Google built in as an upgrade from Google Assistant. The rollout will start with English in the United States and continue over the coming months. In the near future, Gemini will expand to more languages and countries.