Gemini becomes the default assistant in Android Auto

Google is currently rolling out the Gemini assistant to Android Auto users everywhere, replacing the regular Google Assistant that has powered the system until now. Gemini has been available as an optional feature for a while, but it's now becoming the default. Anyone who hasn't switched on their own can still do so by going to Settings > Connected devices > Android Auto > manage digital assistant settings.

A more natural conversation

Unlike the older assistant, which required specific command phrases, Gemini can hold a natural conversation and remember context across follow-up questions. For example, after asking about restaurants along a route, a driver can follow up with questions about parking or reviews without repeating the restaurant's name.

Summarizing messages and picking music

Gemini can condense a chaotic group chat into a short summary instead of reading every notification aloud. It can also draft replies, add an estimated arrival time, and translate messages into more than 40 languages, letting drivers keep their hands off the phone entirely.

For music, Gemini no longer requires naming a specific song or playlist. Drivers can simply describe a mood, such as asking for something upbeat or mellow, and Gemini will pull a matching track from their preferred streaming service.

Additional features

Because Gemini connects to Gmail, Calendar, and note-taking apps, it can retrieve information such as directions emailed earlier or read back a daily schedule. The assistant can also serve as a conversational companion during long drives, useful for open-ended chats, brainstorming, or even interview practice.