Google revealed plans to begin deploying its AI chatbot, Gemini, in a number of locations, including automobiles, at yesterday’s I/O conference. To be the first to get the new technology, Volvo announced today that it was pushing its way to the front of the line.
The Swedish carmaker was among the first to integrate the Android Automotive operating system into its cars, and Volvo said that it was extending its cooperation with Google to include the integration of Gemini across its model lineup. More “natural” dialogues between drivers and their vehicles will be possible, encompassing language translation, navigation assistance, and location-specific queries. They will even be able to ask the AI assistant questions concerning the user handbook for their car. Volvo presented it as a way to reduce the driver’s “cognitive load” and allow them to focus on the road.
Google announced earlier this month that Gemini would be made available to vehicles that utilize Android Auto, the company’s well-known phone mirroring app. However, cars with Android Automotive, which is billed as Google built-in, won’t have access to Gemini until later this year, whereas users of Android Auto will in the upcoming weeks.
Gemini will let drivers and passengers to perform nearly everything that Google Assistant can do, including sending texts, playing music, and getting directions. The primary distinction is that users will be able to rely on Gemini’s natural language capabilities rather than stiff, robotic orders.
Additionally, Volvo will now be used as one of Google’s reference hardware platforms for testing and developing upcoming automotive technologies. This implies that Google will provide “new features and updates” for Volvo cars before to their inclusion in the main Android codebase.
Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars, stated in a statement, “This partnership with Google allows us to incorporate the most recent features and capabilities from the top consumer eco-system into our products first.” “With our growing partnership, we’re working together to develop innovative solutions that will influence connected cars in the future.”
Due to their long-standing partnership with Google, Volvo is already the first to get new features like voice-activated HVAC systems, high-def maps, and integrated YouTube. The first firm to sell automobiles with native Android Automotive OS was Polestar, a performance subbrand that is now a stand-alone brand owned by Volvo.
This year, the focus of Google’s annual developer conference, which took place at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View, California, was Gemini. And because of its many difficulties, such as navigating a two-ton metal box through a complicated environment full of hazards, the car is rapidly becoming a significant platform for chatbots.
Along with the other essential components of the car’s operating system, Google is presenting Gemini as a cooperative partner. Developer relations engineer Ben Sagmoe stated on the Android Developers Blog that “Navigation apps can integrate with Gemini using three core intent formats, allowing you to start navigation, display relevant search results, and execute custom actions, such as enabling users to report incidents like traffic congestion using their voice.”
