New AI feature in Android Auto

Google has started rolling out a new AI feature called "Personal Intelligence" within Android Auto, which is part of its ongoing efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into the service.

Customizable interface for AI

A recent beta version of Android Auto introduced a new customizable interface named Cielo, which allows Google's Gemini AI to access more data from Google Workspace. This interface is expected to enhance the AI's capabilities in the future.

AI assistant's new role for drivers

The Personal Intelligence function lets users ask the AI assistant for information using natural language. This includes retrieving boarding passes, checking flight statuses, suggesting restaurants based on dietary preferences, and finding routes to medical appointments without manually entering addresses.

Limitations and capabilities

According to Google, Personal Intelligence has two main strengths: extracting precise information from emails, photos, or Google Maps locations, and reasoning through complex data sources. However, the company has not provided details on the reliability of the responses or how errors will be addressed.

Privacy and user control

Google claims that privacy is central to the design of Personal Intelligence. Users must give consent before any application connects, and the feature can be turned off in Gemini settings. However, users are advised to be cautious, as granting too many permissions could allow Gemini access to a large portion of their digital life.

Availability and restrictions

The deployment of Personal Intelligence began recently on Android Auto. It is currently available only for personal accounts of users aged 18 and older. Professional and school accounts are not yet supported. Additionally, the feature is not available in the European economic space, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, or Nigeria at this time. Users in France will have to wait before they can test the new feature.