Gemini on Android Auto: the AI Assistant that Outperforms Siri in the Car

Gemini: An Ideal Companion with Android Auto

For iPhone users accustomed to Siri via CarPlay, the arrival of Gemini on Android Auto could be a game changer. This voice assistant, developed by Google, integrates seamlessly into the Android ecosystem, providing enhanced assistance for drivers. As an iPhone owner, I primarily use Siri for basic tasks such as giving directions, making calls, sending messages, checking my calendar, creating reminders, and playing music or podcasts. However, for more complex inquiries, I often turn to ChatGPT.

Setting Up Gemini for Optimal Use

To enjoy Gemini in the car, it is essential to have an Android phone and a vehicle compatible with Android Auto. The first step is to install the Gemini app from Google Play and set it as the default assistant. On most Android devices, this is done through the app settings. Samsung users will need to follow a slightly different process to ensure that Gemini is the active assistant. To designate Gemini as your default assistant, go to settings, select Apps, choose Assistant, then tap on "Digital Assistants." Select the option for Gemini, click Change to confirm your action, and then tap the button to Use Gemini. To confirm that Gemini is the default on your Samsung phone, hold down the power button. A window should appear indicating that Gemini is your new Google AI assistant.

Once the app is set up, you can activate the assistant by voice using the command "Hey Google." This allows for hands-free use, which is essential for safety while driving. To do this, open the Gemini app on your phone, tap your profile icon, then select Settings. Tap the option to talk to Gemini hands-free, then toggle the switch for "Hey Google." Tap the Activate button and then Done.

Connecting and Using Gemini in the Car

Connecting your phone to the car can be done via a USB cable or a Bluetooth connection, depending on the version of Android. Once connected, the Android Auto interface appears on the vehicle's screen, allowing interaction with Gemini. To check if Gemini is active, simply ask the assistant if it is in use. If not, the old Google Assistant may still be functioning, but the rollout of Gemini is ongoing. Gemini is still being deployed as a voice assistant for Android Auto, so the AI is not yet accessible to everyone.

To use Gemini via Android Auto, you must already have Android Auto installed on your phone, as it has been integrated into Android since version 10. To check, go to Settings and tap on Connected Devices. On a Samsung phone, tap the setting for Android Auto. On other Android phones, select Connection Preferences and then tap on Android Auto. If you do not have the app, download and install it from Google Play.

Next, connect your Android phone to your car. You can do this via a USB cable or a wireless Bluetooth connection. For a wired connection, you need Android 9 or higher; for a wireless connection, you need Android 11 or higher. After connecting your phone, return to the Android Auto settings on your device and tap the Connect a Vehicle button. If your phone is plugged in via USB, the connection is established automatically. If you opt for the wireless connection, choose the option to connect via Android Auto wirelessly, then select to connect via Bluetooth.

On your car's multimedia screen, go to Settings, select Bluetooth and Devices, tap the button to add another device, and then tap the button to search for devices. Select your phone's name on your car's screen after it appears. The same pairing code will appear on your phone and the car's screen. Confirm the code on both devices. On the car's screen, tap Yes when asked if you want to use Android Auto. You should then see the Android Auto interface on your screen.

Gemini's Capabilities on the Road

Gemini stands out for its ability to handle a variety of tasks. For example, it can find nearby restaurants, play specific music playlists, send messages, read emails, and even provide reviews of TV shows. For language enthusiasts, Gemini offers interactive lessons, and for relaxation moments, it can launch games or tell stories.

To test the AI, you simply need to say, "Hey, Google" to activate it and tell it what you want. Here are some tasks I assigned to it and how it performed. I was craving sushi and asked Gemini to find nearby Japanese restaurants. The AI displayed a list of places. One restaurant in particular caught my interest, so I asked for more information. Gemini then asked if I wanted to go there, and it provided directions via Google Maps.

In search of summer music, I asked Gemini to play a playlist of California songs from the 1960s. The AI defaulted to YouTube Music and launched a playlist featuring tracks like "California Dreaming" by The Mamas and the Papas and "Happy Together" by The Turtles.

I needed to contact someone while driving, but I didn't want to make a call. So, I asked Gemini to send a message. The AI asked for the subject, which I provided, and the message was sent.

I wanted to check the content of a recent email from ZDNET. I asked Gemini to find the latest email from ZDNET, and the AI read the entire message to me.

As a big Spider-Man fan, I was curious about the reviews for the new "Spider-Noir" series on Amazon Prime. I asked Gemini to give me the latest reviews for the show. The AI provided a general overview and read a few specific reviews.

My wife and I are planning a trip to Italy next year, and I'm trying to improve my language skills. I told Gemini that I wanted to learn Italian, and it launched an interactive lesson to help me learn the meaning of certain words and how to pronounce them.

To pass the time while driving, I usually listen to music or podcasts. But sometimes, I want something more interactive. I asked Gemini to play a game. The AI launched a trivia game about U.S. history. At first, the questions were too easy, but after I requested a challenge, it met my expectations.

To pass the time on a trip, I asked Gemini to tell a story about my cat, Mr. Giggles, who suddenly knew how to talk. The AI told a funny and engaging story about Mr. Giggles taking control of the house with his newfound power of speech.

Finally, a good conversation is another way to stay engaged during a long drive. I asked Gemini to start a stimulating conversation. We discussed what Mr. Giggles might say about his favorite foods and his least favorite household items.

In the end, I appreciated the ease and efficiency of conversing with Gemini in the car. Compared to using Siri and ChatGPT with my iPhone, Gemini is more of a one-stop shop, helping me with everything from basic commands to more complex and interactive tasks. From now on, I will make sure to bring my Android phone when I drive so I can call on Gemini whenever I wish.