What you need to know
- Google Assistant is officially being replaced by Gemini in cars with Google installed and available to existing owners via an over-the-air software update.
- You can finally speak naturally, ask contextual follow-up questions for navigation, and quickly edit dictated texts.
- Artificial intelligence integrates with your specific vehicle’s hardware and owner’s manual to offer personalized troubleshooting.
Google is replacing the familiar Google Assistant on your car’s dashboard with something more conversational: Twins. If you have Google built-in installed in your car, this upgrade is coming sooner than you think.
Google for the first time install the software directly on the car’s dashboard In 2020, the company promises that your car will become smarter over time. This update delivers on that promise. Twins not only on new cars but will also be available on your current car via an over-the-air update.
The main change is that you no longer need to use strict commands. Now you can talk to your car naturally. For example, if you want a highly rated sit-down restaurant with outdoor seating along your route, just ask. Uses the helper Google Maps to find options and you can ask “Do they have vegetarian options?” you can ask additional questions like or check parking.
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Navigation is now more aware of your situation. You can ask if the stadium incident affected your driving or report an accident in your lane to help others. Texting while driving is also smarter. Gemini can summarize incoming texts so you can respond in full detail. You can even edit your message as dictated without restarting.
Works with apps like apps for music and media YouTube Music and understands your wishes. On longer trips, the new Gemini Live beta allows you to have a free chat that you can pause or interrupt. You can click the Gemini Live button or say “Hey Google, let’s talk” to get ideas for hiking trails in Tahoe.
Your virtual mechanic
Google has worked with car manufacturers to build artificial intelligence into your car’s hardware. This means you can ask how to prepare your model for an automatic car wash or how to adjust the trunk height for a low garage and it will give you specific answers. Note that the level of detail depends on the make and model of your vehicle.
If you drive an EV, you’ll get real-time updates about your battery. You can check your approximate battery level when you arrive, search for nearby chargers, or even ask Gemini to find a cafe where you can relax while your car is charging.
The update will be available in US English first, with more countries and languages coming soon. Make sure you’re signed in to your Google account in your car to get the upgrade. Once you’re ready, you can use it by pressing a button on your steering wheel, tapping the microphone, or simply saying “Hey Google.”
Soon, the assistant will be able to securely access your Gmail, Google Calendar and Google Home data directly from the driver’s seat.
Android Central’s Take
I like to speak naturally instead of memorizing commands, especially when working with navigation, messages and music at the same time. However, Google has promised smarter assistants in the past, but they haven’t always worked well in real life. If the Gemini stays accurate and doesn’t misunderstand you while driving, it’s a win. Otherwise, it might turn out to be another overhyped feature that you ignore a week later, but now it’s installed in your car.
