Honda, Acura Add Google Gemini AI to Cars; What Does It Do?

What Car Shoppers Need to Know

• Honda and Acura vehicles with Google Built-In are getting Google’s Gemini AI assistant.
• The technology is in some Hondas dating back to the 2023 model year and in Acuras from model-year 2024 to the present.
• Conversational AI allows for more detailed instructions and hands-free inputs.

If your Honda or Acura vehicle has Google Built-In, it now also has Google’s Gemini AI assistant. Gemini allows drivers to take fuller advantage of Google Maps and other apps through voice control, without taking their hands off the wheel.

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For example, instead of having a passenger search for nearby restaurants (something you would never do yourself while driving, right?), drivers can activate Gemini by saying, “Hey Google,” and then tell it to do so. Gemini can respond to more detailed instructions, too, such as searching for a particular type of restaurant, one with a minimum rating or one with accessible parking. Designed for natural, conversational interaction, Gemini will also ask clarifying questions and respond to them. Does the burger joint you told it to go to have accessible parking? What time does it close? Does it have outdoor seating?

Integrating Gemini into the vehicle instead of the driver’s phone also gives the AI assistant the ability to control other vehicle systems. Drivers can direct it to adjust the radio volume or climate-control settings, specifics not required. Simply say, “Hey Google, I’m cold,” and it will turn up the heat and activate the seat heaters — though it’s easy to see how taking your hands off the wheel and making these adjustments the old-fashioned way will likely preclude the need for future instructions. (“Hey Google, now I’m getting hot. OK, that’s a little too chilly. Maybe set the temp at like 70 degrees. And the music’s a little too quiet. A little too loud. A little bit softer now. A little bit softer now. A little bit softer now.”)

A further development of the AI tech, Gemini Live allows for still freer-flowing conversations. Google imagines drivers using this function to brainstorm ideas for weekend getaways or spitball ideas for upcoming meetings. Just remember: Hands on the wheel is a good start. But keep your eyes — and mind — on the road.

Hondas With Google Built-In and Google Gemini

Acuras With Google Built-In and Google Gemini

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