Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET
Gemini is hitting the road.
According to Google, there are over 250 million cars that support Android Auto today, and more than 50 car models with Google built directly into the infotainment system. Those vehicles are about to get a lot smarter, as Gemini is coming to Android Auto.
Also: Your Android devices are getting several upgrades for free – including a big one for Auto
Gemini for Android Auto will work the same as it does everywhere else, meaning you’ll have access to conversations, insight, helpful advice, and more.
Here’s a look at just a few of the unique ways you can use Gemini on the go in Android Auto.
1. Find the perfect restaurant
If hunger hits while you’re driving, Gemini can help you find what you’re looking for. Just ask Gemini to “find great burger places along the way,” and you’ll get a list of restaurants that specialize in them.
You can ask for insight from reviews or ask common questions, like what the hours are. Once you’ve decided, Gemini can connect to Google Maps to get you there.
2. Prepare for a big conversation
If you have an important conversation or call, you can tap into Gemini’s conversational skills to prepare without taking your hands off the wheel. Just say, “Hey Google, let’s talk,” to start things off. Ask Gemini something like, “I need to have a conversation with my boss about a new promotion. How do I go about this?” and you’ll get some strategic tips on what to say.
Also: 5 reasons your Android Auto keeps disconnecting – and how to fix it today
It’s not just work-related, though. You can ask Gemini for help with any type of conversation — what to say for a gentle breakup, how to resolve conflict with a friend, how to discuss finances with a partner, and so on.
3. Translate text messages
Sending a message to someone who speaks another language can be tricky, especially if you’re using your voice while you’re on the go. You can ask Gemini to always send messages to a certain contact in a certain language (for example, “always send messages to John in Spanish”). The next time you text that person, Gemini can help you craft the message instead of translating verbatim — helping more context come through.
4. Search Gmail
Forget where your kid’s soccer game is this week? You can ask Gemini to find it for you. If the location is lost in a sea of emails, tell Gemini to track it down, and it will find the relevant information.
5. See what’s on your calendar
Want to walk into work prepared? Ask Gemini to tell you what’s on your Google Calendar.
Also: Finally, I found an Android Auto adapter that’s highly functional, lag-free, and priced well
If you’re not a fan of Gemini, Android Auto is getting several standalone upgrades, too. Google says that the app catalog has been expanding to include more categories like games and video, and it’s expanding the digital car key feature to more vehicles, like Audi, Volvo, and Polestar.
Gemini will be available on cars that support Android Auto in the next few months, Google said, and in cars that have Google built-in, like the Lincoln Nautilus, Renault R5, and Honda Passport, later this year.
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