Gemini replacing Google Assistant on Android Automotive for 4 million GM cars

Following Android Auto, Gemini is coming to GM cars with Android Automotive (officially known as Google built-in).

Specifically, Gemini will soon roll out to model year 2022 and newer Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicles. GM says there are “approximately 4 million vehicles in the U.S. eligible for the update.”

When invoking Gemini, you’ll see a four-color light bar and an “Ask Google Gemini” pill just above it. At the right, you’ll find a shortcut to the more conversational Gemini Live experience, which is also available with “Hey Google, let’s talk.”

• Plan a trip and learn about the destination: “Can you help us brainstorm ideas for a family holiday? Somewhere warm, full of adventure, without a long flight.”
• Prep for important conversations: “I need to have a conversation with my boss about a new promotion. How do I go about this?”

Gemini can handle multiple tasks in a single conversation:

• Say: “Hey Google, take me to the nearest post office. Oh, and add a stop for some good coffee along the way.”
• Then refine it with a follow up: “I’m suddenly craving barbecue. Are there any good spots along my route? Let’s say, less than a mile detour.”
• Or shift gears mid-flow: “Play something calming.”

GM also touts use cases across messaging and entertainment:

• Express it with emojis: “Send a message to Anna to let her know that I’m bringing dessert and add a cupcake emoji to it.”
• Road trip vibes: “Hey Google, can you help me create a road trip playlist? I want something upbeat, about 3 hours long, that’s good for both me and the kids.”
• Studio-grade listening: “Hey Google, play the newest tracks in Dolby Atmos” and enjoy immersive audio in select Cadillac models.
• Podcasts summarized: “Hey Google, can you give me a summary of the latest episode of OnStar’s Tell Me What Happened podcast?”

Finally, for commercial drivers, Gemini on Android Automotive has planning capabilities:

• Plan a more efficient day: “I have three stops to make today and need to finish my day with at least half a tank. Can you help me find the least expensive fuel along my route?”
• Find trailer-friendly parking: “Where is the best trailer friendly parking near me?

Gemini will be rolling out to GM vehicles “over several months,” and you’ll see a “message on your infotainment screen” once available. You must be:

• Connected to OnStar
• Signed into the Google Play Store
• Using US English as your assistant language
• Opted in to Gemini

Gemini will come to “additional GM markets and support more languages over time.”