Google Maps on CarPlay Now Lets You Talk to Gemini While You Navigate

Summary

Google Maps on CarPlay now has a Gemini button during navigation. You can ask multi-step questions, such as finding a park with city views, reporting traffic problems by voice, or starting a route that avoids tolls. It is rolling out in the US first, with a worldwide rollout underway.

Why it matters

Google Maps is the first to offer a voice assistant in CarPlay, so iPhone drivers who prefer Maps over Apple Maps get a real upgrade. It can take a few days to reach your phone.

HTD Says

Asking your car a messy question like “where can I stop for a quick walk with a view” and getting a useful answer is the kind of AI feature families will actually use on road trips.

I may have to compare it head-to-head with Siri Intelligence. Having Gemini tightly embedded in Google Maps, versus something like Siri that spans the entire platform, could make that tighter integration more useful.

I’m not sure whether you need a Gemini account for this integration to work. It would probably be better to hook it in so you can access historical information. But then you may have to worry about usage. You could always use Gemini in the Maps app on your iPhone, but now the Gemini button is right there on the CarPlay screen.

Source:

9to5Google