Update for car owners: Google Assistant makes way for Gemini
Modern technology allows cars to get better even after purchase. Artificial intelligence promises to make interaction with these technologies more effective. Now Honda and Google are joining forces. Car owners in the US will soon receive a software update that will replace Google Assistant with Google Gemini. The update will be delivered “over the air” for models equipped with the built-in Google system.
How the new system works
The main advantage for owners is that Gemini does not require the use of special commands. Google designed Gemini to understand natural language, remember context between queries, and carry on more complex conversations. This means that instead of a query like “nearest restaurant,” drivers can ask, for example, “a highly rated place for an outdoor lunch along the way,” without breaking the request into several separate commands.
Which models will receive the update
Honda reports that Gemini will be available to customers who are signed into their Google account in vehicles with the built-in Google system. The list of eligible models includes:
Gemini Live Feature
The update also introduces Gemini Live, which allows for free-flowing conversations by saying “Hey Google, let’s talk.” Honda suggests using it for planning vacations, brainstorming, catching up on the day’s news, or answering questions without taking your hands off the wheel. The company positions this as an update for convenience.
Privacy and data collection
Of course, this is another step in the automotive industry’s race to create truly useful voice assistants. As with any AI assistant, the added convenience comes with privacy trade-offs. Gemini may access your location, conversation history, and connected apps if the user agrees. Google states that drivers can manage or disable most of this data collection through the privacy settings in the car. This does not necessarily mean that Google or Honda uses all of this information, but it shows the volume of data these systems are capable of processing.
Complete list of compatible models
Here is a detailed list of models and trims that will receive the update:
- Accord: Touring Hybrid (2023 – current)
- Civic Sedan: Sport Touring Hybrid, Si (2025 – current)
- Civic Hatchback: Sport Touring Hybrid (2025 – current)
- Prologue: All trims (2024 – current)
- Pilot: All trims (2026 – current)
- Passport: All trims (2026 – current)
- CR-V: Sport Touring Hybrid (2026 – current)
- Prelude: All trims (2026 – current)
This update marks a transition from rigid voice commands to more natural communication with the car. While the technology promises a significant increase in convenience, it also raises important questions about how manufacturers and technology companies use data collected inside the vehicle. The system’s ability to handle complex requests and conduct dialogue could change the way drivers interact with information and entertainment on the road, but it also requires users to pay more attention to their privacy settings.