At the Android Show ahead of the 2025 Google I/O Developer Conference, Google announced that it would integrate its powerful generative artificial intelligence model, Gemini, into all cars supporting Android Auto in the coming months. This feature will also later extend to vehicles running on the built-in Google operating system. Google stated that this move aims to make the driving experience "more efficient and more fun," signaling a major transformation in the way people interact with vehicles.
Vice President of Android for Cars, Patrick Brady, said before the event that the addition of Gemini will be "one of the biggest changes we've seen in the car experience in quite some time." Gemini will primarily be integrated into Android Auto through two main ways:
Firstly, Gemini will appear as a more powerful intelligent voice assistant. Drivers and passengers will be able to communicate with Gemini using more natural language to accomplish existing Google Assistant functions such as sending text messages or playing music. Unlike before, users no longer need to use precise commands; Gemini's natural language processing capability will allow it to understand more casual and complex requests. Additionally, Gemini will be able to "remember" user preferences, such as preferred texting languages for contacts, and provide corresponding translation services. Google specifically mentioned that Gemini will be able to easily handle complex navigation queries like "finding restaurants along the way that serve vegan Mexican tacos" and can offer more precise suggestions by utilizing Google's business listings and reviews.
Secondly, Google introduced a new feature called "Gemini Live." In this mode, the digital AI will continuously "listen," ready to participate in any full conversations initiated by the user on any topic. Brady provided examples, including planning spring break trips, recipes liked by ten-year-olds, and even broader topics like Roman history.
Although this always-on conversational mode may raise concerns about distraction, Brady believes that Gemini's natural language capabilities will actually "reduce cognitive load" because it can more easily perform specific tasks. This contrasts with the current trend among users calling for car manufacturers to return to physical controls, but Google remains optimistic.
Currently, both Android Auto and Gemini on the built-in Google system will rely on Google's cloud processing capabilities. However, Google is working with automakers to build stronger computational capabilities at the vehicle edge to improve performance and reliability in unstable network conditions during travel.
Regarding whether Gemini will utilize the rich sensor data generated by modern vehicles, including in-car and out-of-car camera data, Brady stated that there is "nothing to announce yet," but this is certainly an area they are actively exploring, and he believes there are "very very interesting use cases" in the future.
It was reported that Gemini on Android Auto and Google Built-In will be launched in countries and regions where its generative AI models are already available, supporting over 40 languages.