Google just gave Android Auto its most significant update yet - and we tested it on the road

"Earlier this year, Google announced that Gemini would be coming to Android Auto "in the coming months." The coming months are here, as the rollout has began just a week ago, and Google's AI is now appearing on vehicle dashboards globally. Also: Google just rolled out Gemini 3 to Search - here's what it can do and how to try it Gemini in your car will work just like it does on your phone, and our first impressions of the update have been very positive."

"You can ask for complex information, have a back-and-forth conversation, get help finding a specific message or email, and more. You can even add stops to your navigation without needing to fumble with your dashboard. Phew. But beyond performing tasks more effectively than the old Google Assistant could, Gemini is a conversational partner that enables you to speak naturally and get what you need. So, instead of thinking hard about how to properly communicate a query, you can simply talk to the assistant as you would with a passenger."

"Google is offering up five ways you can use your new Gemini capabilities: 1. Add local stops like an expert Also: How to turn off Gemini in your Gmail, Photos, Chrome, and more - it's easy to opt out of AI Maps has been getting several upgrades thanks to Gemini, and many of those features are trickling down to Android Auto. For example, if you're looking for a local spot, Gemini can provide you with insights from real reviews and answer frequently asked questions about businesses. You might ask something like, "Hey Google, is there a restaurant with good burgers open now that's along my route?""

Gemini is now rolling out to Android Auto globally, appearing on vehicle dashboards and functioning similarly to the phone version. The assistant handles complex queries, supports back-and-forth conversations, helps locate specific messages or emails, and lets users add navigation stops hands-free. Gemini emphasizes natural speech, allowing drivers to speak like they would with a passenger rather than crafting precise commands. Google provides multiple invocation methods and integrates Gemini-driven Maps upgrades into Android Auto, enabling insights from reviews and answers to business FAQs to assist in finding suitable local stops along a route.

Read at ZDNET