MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA: Google has officially begun replacing Google Assistant with its next-generation artificial intelligence, Gemini, in Android Auto, bringing more natural, conversational, and integrated AI features to in-car systems.
Select beta users are now spotting Gemini on their car dashboards, marking a pivotal moment in Google’s AI strategy as it transitions from traditional voice assistance to full generative intelligence.
The rollout follows months of speculation after Google announced that Gemini would eventually power its suite of apps and services, including mobile devices, smart displays, and now Android Auto.
According to 9to5Google, several early adopters have confirmed seeing Gemini appear in place of the classic Google Assistant interface. However, Google has not yet issued an official statement or press release about the update.
The change appears to be a server-side rollout, meaning users cannot manually enable it. Reports suggest that Gemini is currently available to beta users running Android Auto version 15.6 or 15.7, with a broader release expected in the coming weeks.
Gemini brings a more conversational AI experience
Gemini introduces a much more dynamic and human-like interaction model compared to Google Assistant. It allows for fluid conversations, follow-up questions, and even interruption mid-response, similar to how users might interact with Google’s Gemini Live on smartphones.
The AI is deeply connected across Google’s ecosystem, including apps like Google Home, Google Keep, and Calendar. This means drivers can perform complex hands-free tasks, such as adding items to a grocery list, setting reminders, or asking for navigation routes, without ever leaving Android Auto.
However, some beta testers have noted that certain features — such as contact nicknames and personalized commands — are not yet functioning properly, suggesting that the update is still being fine-tuned before a wider launch.
Smarter navigation and Maps integration
This rollout follows another major Gemini upgrade for Google Maps, which was introduced earlier this week. The integration enables users to engage in real-time dialogue with their navigation system — asking follow-up questions about nearby locations, reporting traffic incidents, or getting alternate routes during congestion.
Gemini’s deeper connection with Maps and Android Auto demonstrates Google’s broader vision to make driving assistance more intuitive, context-aware, and powered by generative AI. By replacing Assistant, Google aims to create a seamless, intelligent driving companion that can anticipate user needs rather than simply respond to commands.
The full-scale release of Gemini on Android Auto is expected after additional beta testing, potentially expanding to global users by early 2026.
