- Gemini deployment on the server side of Android Auto, first visible in betas 15.6 and 15.7 and present in Spain and other European countries.
- Key improvements: natural language, Gemini Live, integration with Maps, Home and Keep, automatic message translation, and new privacy settings.
- It retains the "Hey Google" command and adds a Live widget; nicknames for contacts are lost and compatibility with some apps is still under development.
- You can't force activation: it's best to keep Android Auto updated or join the beta program.
After months of waiting, the first drivers in Europe are now seeing how Gemini replaces Google Assistant in the Android Auto interfaceThis represents a significant change in the driving experience, with a more natural and capable assistant, which is beginning to emerge in Spain and nearby markets.
The deployment is being gradual and server-sideTherefore, it doesn't depend on a specific update to the car's app. Several users have detected the Gemini arrives with Android Auto 15.6 and 15.7 in betaHowever, the installed version does not appear to be the deciding factor for the new assistant to appear.
What changes with the arrival of Gemini to the car
The main novelty is the conversation with natural languageThere's no need to memorize rigid commands anymore: you can talk to it like a person and the system understands the context, keeps track of the thread and allows chained interventions without having to touch the screen.
Gemini retains the classic "Hey Google" voice activation feature and adds a new mode Gemini Livewhich transforms the interaction into a continuous dialogue. If requested, the multimedia panel can give way to a Live widget focused on conversation while driving.
Google's AI integrates with extensions and connected apps like Maps, Home, and Keep, to perform actions such as creating a shopping list, adjusting smart home devices, or planning more convenient routes. New options like "Interrupt Live Responses" and "Share Precise Location" appear in the settings and are enabled by default.
Another practical improvement is that translates automatically The text messages you receive and send are displayed, which is useful when you're contacted in another language. On the other hand, the use of nicknames for contacts, which was possible with Assistant, doesn't work at the moment.
In this first phase there are still limitationsCompatibility with some messaging apps and groups is not complete, and for safety reasons, AI responses in the car tend to be shorter than on mobile to avoid distracting you.
Availability in Spain and Europe
In the last few hours, reports have appeared in Spain, Italy and Germany of cars where the Gemini button is already displayed in Android Auto. Everything points to a wave deployment which could take anywhere from hours to a few days to spread.
The arrival doesn't appear to be tied to a specific phone or vehicle model: it has been seen working on devices like a Pixel or a Galaxy with Android Auto 15.6 and 15.7 in betaFor now, those who participate in the testing program are usually the first to receive it.
In parallel, Google is advancing the integration of AI into the Google Maps navigation on mobilesThis aligns with the move to Android Auto: requesting places on the route, checking parking, or sharing your arrival time by voice is becoming easier with Gemini.
What you can do while driving
With Gemini you can naturally request actions, without memorizing formulasFor example, start navigation to an address, search for restaurants with specific options within a few kilometers, check if there is parking nearby and, when you decide, start the route without touching the screen.
One of the most useful uses is find cheap gas stationsThe AI can locate nearby stations, give you estimated prices, and add a stop halfway based on a radius you specify, so that Don't waste time comparing manually.
It also takes care of the basic, everyday things: playing music on your favorite apps, send and translate messages by voice or answer quick questions about your tripall without taking your hands off the wheel.
In navigation, Gemini works best with Google Maps and Waze to adjust routes, avoid tolls if you prefer, or report incidents.You can even dictate that an accident or detention be reported, and the AI will open the corresponding dialog to register it.
How to test it and what you need
Gemini activation in Android Auto cannot be forced: it only happens when Google enables it in your account. Even so, it's worthwhile. keep the app updated Update to the latest available version and periodically check if the new icon appears on the car's interface.
If you have it, you'll see the Gemini logo when you press the microphone. The "Hey Google" command It still works, and if you want to enter conversational mode, you can start the chat with an expression like "let's talk" to enable Gemini Live.
Anyone wishing to get ahead can join the beta program Android Auto and updates from Google Play. However, the arrival depends on the server side, so there's no guarantee of receiving it instantly even if you participate.
Don't forget to check the settings of privacy and location Gemini in Android Auto lets you decide whether to share your precise location and whether the assistant can interrupt long responses while you're driving.
The implementation of Gemini in Android Auto marks a generational relief This improves efficiency, language comprehension, and conversation flow. Although the rollout is phased and some features still need refining, the driving experience in Spain and Europe represents a clear leap forward compared to the old Assistant.
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