Android Auto is getting Gemini today

• Gemini replaces Google Assistant on Android Auto if you've already switched on your phone.

• Gemini enhances Maps: natural follow-ups, reviews, hours, and dish recommendations without precise commands.

• Improved hands-free messaging, Gmail address extraction, and Live with Gemini beta for chats and travel help.

As promised earlier this year , Google's AI assistant is officially starting to roll out to Android Auto. However, whether or not you'll get it depends on the choices you've made on your phone.

First and foremost, Gemini will replace Google Assistant on Android Auto if you've already made the switch on your phone. That's most Android users at this point, but if you've managed to stick with Assistant, it will still be available in Android Auto (for now).

One of the first things you may notice is how Gemini works with Google Maps. It can give you insights from reviews and answer common questions about businesses. Google says this should be a lot more natural since you won't have to remember specific voice commands. For example, you could ask, "Hey Google, I'm in the mood for a burger. Are there any good spots open near my destination?" If a place looks promising, you can keep the conversation going to ask about popular dishes and reviews.

Hands-free messaging is getting some nice improvements as well. You don't have to perfectly dictate your message or start all over because you misspoke or left something out. Google gives the example of saying, "Oops, I'm stuck in traffic. Can you let Leo know and add my ETA and a sorry emoji?" If you realize you forgot something, you can adjust the message without starting over. Just say, "One more thing. Can you also ask if he wants to grab coffee after the game?"

Gemini can also pull addresses from emails in your Gmail account. If you've booked a hotel, you can find the address buried in your email and navigate there just by asking. You can also ask for a summary of your unread emails that have accumulated while you've been driving.

Live with Gemini is available on Android Auto in beta. When you say, "Hey Google, let's chat," Gemini can do anything from brainstorming ideas to being your tour guide to learn about your destination. It can be a faceless voice to talk to while you pass the time.

As mentioned, if you're using the Gemini app on your phone, a tooltip will appear on your car display when it's available. You can activate it by saying "Hey Google," pressing the mic button on your car screen, or long-pressing the voice control button on your steering wheel.

Source: Google