Gemini for Android Automotive is rolling out soon, even if your car isn't brand new

After releasing for Android Auto, Gemini is replacing the Google Assistant on vehicles with Android Automotive.

Gemini is going to replace Google Assistant on Android Automotive in vehicles that use the operating system. Google says this update will be available for existing vehicles in the coming months, and new cars loaded with Google built-in will use Gemini over the previous digital assistant. Without being specific, Google alludes that most vehicles from 2020 on will get a software update.

Google’s goal is to offer a more streamlined and natural experience for more fluid interactions. Gemini appears with a multi-colored light bar over the display taskbar, and an “Ask Gemini” pill appears above it. Google gives a couple of examples of how the experience should work.

Drivers and passengers have the option to enter Gemini Live, similar to the Android experience.

Advertisement - scroll for more content

The Android Automotive integration with Gemini extends a little bit deeper with built-in systems. Google says Gemini will have access to vehicle controls and respond to nuanced commands.

The available actions vary by vehicle brand and model, Google says. This comes as Google recently announced updates that control more parts of the car.

The Gemini update for Android Automotive will roll out to “eligible users” in the US. They’ll get an option to upgrade to Gemini, though sticking with Google Assistant is possible. It’s unclear how long that will be the case for, but Gemini on Android Auto seems to have a few kinks that need working out.

Google says the feature update will expand to more languages and countries in the “near future.”