Google's Gemini AI to Boost Your Car's Android Auto Experience with Smarter Features

Gemini’s Imminent Arrival on Android Auto

Google's Gemini artificial intelligence models are progressively making their way into an array of Google applications and devices, and it appears that Android Auto might be the next to embrace this advanced AI.

Recent discoveries in the code of the latest Android Auto app for Android reveal tantalising hints about Gemini's potential integration.

Android Auto

The code, unearthed by Android Authority, references a "sparkle" icon associated with Gemini, which is consistent with the branding found across various platforms.

Additionally, there's mention of "kitt" — possibly a nod to the AI bot from the iconic 80s TV show Knight Rider, suggesting a futuristic twist to the integration.

Intriguingly, other code snippets such as "Start conversation" and "GeminiLiveAssistantAction" hint that users may soon be able to interact with Gemini directly from their car dashboards.

This integration would enable users to access intelligent, personalised responses from Gemini, elevating the current capabilities of Google Assistant to a new level of conversational AI.

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is a system that lets you use your Android phone in your car.

You can connect your phone to your car's infotainment system and use apps like Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant for voice control, and music streaming services like Spotify.

It's designed to make driving safer and more convenient by keeping your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

The Future of AI Integration: Gemini vs. Google Assistant

The shift towards Gemini is part of Google's broader strategy to embed AI into its suite of products.

While Gemini is steadily replacing Google Assistant across various apps and devices, the rollout to Android Auto has not yet been officially confirmed.

However, given the rapid deployment of Gemini in other areas such as phones and web apps, the introduction of Gemini into Android Auto seems imminent.

Users should anticipate a significant enhancement in their in-car AI experience, with Gemini potentially offering more nuanced and contextually aware responses compared to Google Assistant.

The premium features of Gemini, such as those available through the Google One AI Premium plan at US$20 / SGD $29 per month, could also be a factor.

Currently, these features include advanced conversational capabilities through Gemini Live.

It remains unclear whether all users will have access to the full range of Gemini’s features or if some will be restricted to premium subscribers.

This ambiguity adds an element of anticipation for Android Auto users eager to see how these advanced capabilities will be implemented.

New Features and Enhancements on the Horizon

Google's efforts to upgrade Android Auto include a range of new features, with the latest Android Auto 12.7 update hinting at improvements in managing "Favorite" stations and enhanced support for "Car Local Media."

The Android Auto 12.8 beta version has revealed more details, including icons for radio and local media playback, although these features are not yet active.

The code also suggests a future integration of Gemini Live, which could bring voice-activated features to in-car use.

The term "kitt_live" found in the app's code reinforces the speculation that this update will involve significant voice-interaction enhancements.

Although the precise timeline for these features remains unclear, the ongoing development points towards a comprehensive upgrade aimed at enhancing the user experience through advanced AI capabilities.

Gemini Live’s Impact on the Android Auto Experience

The prospect of integrating Gemini Live into Android Auto represents a major leap forward in in-car AI technology.

The recent code discoveries, including the mention of a monochrome Gemini icon and the GeminiLiveAssistantAction function, strongly suggest that Gemini Live could significantly boost the functionality of Android Auto.

While the feature is not yet fully operational, it is expected to offer a more conversational and intelligent interaction compared to the current Google Assistant functionalities.

Despite the advanced capabilities of Gemini Live, it is acknowledged that some of Google Assistant’s functions might still be necessary.

This suggests that Google may bridge any gaps by continually updating Android Auto to integrate the missing features.

As it stands, the premium nature of Gemini Live, available through the Gemini Advanced subscription at US$20 per month, contrasts with the basic, potentially free, version of the chatbot.

The availability of a year's free Gemini Advanced for Pixel 9 owners highlights Google's strategy to promote its latest AI advancements.

The eventual integration of Gemini into Android Auto holds promise for transforming the in-car experience, providing users with more sophisticated, AI-driven interactions.

As Google continues to refine and roll out these features, the anticipation builds for a future where advanced AI like Gemini becomes a central component of everyday technology.