Your Android Auto experience is getting a personal touch from Gemini

Gemini is already pretty much everywhere, from your phone and laptop to the apps you use every day. Google has also brought its AI assistant into cars, and now it’s taking it a step further. The company announced that Gemini is available globally on Android Auto and in vehicles with Google built in, and it’s also introducing Personal Intelligence to make the assistant more useful behind the wheel.

If you’re unfamiliar with Personal Intelligence, it lets Gemini pull information from your connected Google apps, including Gmail, Google Photos, Calendar, Maps, YouTube, and Search, to answer questions based on your own information.

For example, you’re driving to the airport and can’t remember your flight details. Instead of pulling over to look it up, you could ask Gemini about your flight and get the information you need. Or say you’re heading out for dinner and want to find a nice cafe along the way — Gemini could help you narrow your options.

That’s what makes this particularly interesting. Voice assistants in cars aren’t new, but asking questions about your own emails, appointments, and other information could make Gemini feel like a useful travel companion. And, importantly, it means fewer reasons to reach for your phone while driving.

Of course, giving an AI assistant access to information across your Google account might not appeal to everyone. Google says Personal Intelligence is optional, so you can decide whether you’re comfortable letting Gemini use your personal information to provide more tailored answers.

As for availability, Personal Intelligence is rolling out on Android Auto starting today, with support for vehicles with Google built-in arriving over the coming months. However, not everyone will have access. For now, the feature is limited to eligible personal Google accounts belonging to users aged 18 and older.

It’s also unavailable in the European Economic Area, Switzerland, the UK, and Nigeria, while Workspace business, enterprise, and education accounts aren’t supported. If you’ve already enabled Personal Intelligence in the Gemini app, your preferences will carry over to your car. Otherwise, you’ll need to turn it on through Gemini settings.