Google is working on integrating the Gemini Live chatbot and voice mode into Android Auto. Android Authority specialists managed to activate it.
It's worth noting that Gemini was tested on an Android smartphone that simulated a car's dashboard, not on a real car. This means that some features may work differently when Gemini officially arrives in cars. However, this test gives a clear idea of what to expect.
The AI assistant doesn't seem to be well-suited for use in the car yet. In an experiment, it was asked to plan a trip within a certain budget, but the response was too general and didn't provide useful or convenient suggestions. Gemini didn't take into account the user's real-time geolocation and didn't offer the most practical travel options based on location.
Similarly, when asked to find nearby eateries, Gemini provided a long list of options but didn't show them on a map, making the information less useful. However, it did well with simple tasks like playing music from Spotify, showing its ability to perform Google Assistant functions.
But Gemini's real achievement is its conversational abilities. When asked about the weather or landmarks like the Taj Mahal, the AI provided detailed and interesting answers that went beyond the short, factual answers that Google Assistant usually offers.
As the Google Assistant transition continues, Gemini is gradually rolling out to more Google platforms. It's already available on smartphones, coming soon to Google TV and smart speakers, and is actively being developed for Wear OS. Unfortunately, there's no word yet on when it will be added to Android Auto.