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

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ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Gemini is now available for Android Auto, replacing Google Assistant.
• The auto version brings a voice assistant capable of natural conversations.
• You have three different ways to initiate Gemini in your vehicle.

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…