Volvo Cars Partners with Google to Integrate Gemini AI Assistant

In response to Apple’s new CarPlay Ultra, Google has now integrated its Gemini AI assistant into Volvo cars.

Global tech giant Google has responded to Apple’s spanking new CarPlay Ultra by integrating its Google Gemini AI assistant into the Android Automotive OS. This new integration will make its debut in future Volvo models, as the Swedish automaker has just expanded its partnership with Google, thus further heating up the in-car tech arms race.

The Gemini integration is set to make its way into Volvo cars that now run Android Automotive OS as standard, where it will replace the existing Google Assistant interface. Designed to handle more natural conversational interactions, Gemini promises to transform in-car voice commands into a more humane and natural experience while at the same time being more intuitive to the driver’s needs.

With this integration, Volvo drivers will be able to ask intricate questions to Google’s Gemini, ranging from information about the car's status and specs to pulling up information about places they’re going or things they’re planning to do. Thanks to Gemini’s advanced AI prowess, drivers and passengers can now use a more casual language without needing to sound too formal or generic in their tones.

Volvo also added that the Gemini’s ability to understand and comprehend causal languages can also help to “reduce your cognitive load so that you can stay focused on driving, reducing distractions for everyone onboard.”

Beyond the basic voice assistance functions, Gemini can also help drivers compose messages and translate them on the fly. The AI-powered assistant can also handle smaller tasks like adding items to your shopping list or even help you in planning for trips without the need for drivers or passengers to pull out their mobile devices.

Aside from the Gemini integration, both Volvo and Google are also partnered to explore more future possibilities, with the Swedish automaker now serving as Google’s lead development partner for new Android Automotive features and updates. While current Volvo models are running Android 13, the shift to Android 15 is expected later this year.

“We strive to deliver human-centric technology, and a stunning customer experience is an essential part of this. 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,” says Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars.