At its annual I/O developer conference that began on Tuesday, Google announced that its advanced artificial intelligence Gemini AI assistant will be integrated into vehicles. The latest expansion sees Google extending Gemini’s capabilities to vehicles that support both Android Auto and Android Automotive.
The company’s partner Swedish automaker Volvo, will reportedly become the first to incorporate Gemini into its entire model lineup through its Android Automotive system. Volvo confirmed it would become the reference hardware platform for Google’s automotive development.
According to Google, Android Auto users will receive Gemini in the coming weeks, and cars with Android Automotive, Google’s fully integrated system, are slated to get access at an unconfirmed date this year.
Per Volvo’s May 20 press statement, drivers will be able to engage in more natural, human-like conversations with their vehicle. The Gemini large language model will help give directions to specific locations, translating languages, accessing the car’s user manual, or playing music.
“Navigation apps can integrate with Gemini using three core intent formats,” explained Ben Sagmoe, a developer relations engineer at Google. These include starting journeys, displaying relevant search results, and allowing voice-enabled custom actions like reporting traffic incidents.
Unlike the older Google Assistant, which required scripted commands, Gemini will supposedly understand freeform language to help users interact with the system while driving, like they would “with a human being.”
The AI is designed to reduce what Volvo refers to as the “cognitive load” of drivers, allowing them to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
“Through this partnership with Google, we are able to bring the very latest features and capabilities from the leading consumer ecosystem into our products first,” said Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars.
Volvo has worked closely with Google for several years and was among the first automakers to adopt Android Automotive. As a reference hardware platform, Volvo vehicles will receive new features and updates from Google before they are introduced to the broader Android ecosystem.
According to both companies, this arrangement could speed up the development of innovative connected car experiences.
Google will use Volvo’s in-vehicle hardware and software environment to test capabilities like the advanced navigation features and smarter voice controls. These enhancements will ultimately benefit the entire automotive industry, as tested features roll out to other manufacturers through Android’s open-source platform.
“With Volvo, we’re shaping the future of connected cars,” said Bakkenes. “We strive to deliver human-centric technology, and a stunning customer experience is an essential part of this.”
Google to introduce Gemini in TVs, improves its 2.5 model
In April, Google announced that the AI assistant will also come to Google TV, Wear OS smartwatches, and Android XR devices in the coming months.
On Google TV, Gemini can recommend kid-friendly movies or explain scientific concepts like the solar system in an engaging format tailored for young viewers.
Though Google hasn’t provided the precise rollout dates, the company said it would make Gemini available “later this year” across these platforms.
“We recently updated 2.5 Pro to help developers build richer, interactive web apps. It’s great to see the positive reaction from users and developers and we’re continuing to make improvements based on user feedback,” said Google in its blog post.
The 2.5 Pro model supports a one-million-token context window, allowing it to handle longer and more complex interactions for multitasking environments like driving. It has also reportedly outperformed other leading models in education-focused comparisons, especially when tested against five core principles of learning science.
In its latest update, Google added features such as native audio output for a “more natural conversational experience,” advanced security safeguards, and support for developer tools, including MCP integration.
