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As an iPhone owner, I primarily use Siri through CarPlay when I'm driving. Apple's voice assistant can handle basic tasks like giving me turn-by-turn directions, making phone calls, sending texts, checking my calendar, creating reminders, and playing music and podcasts. For more challenging questions that stump Siri, I've been turning to ChatGPT.
But since my Toyota Camry supports Android Auto as well, I wanted to see how Google Gemini would fare as my in-car assistant. With that in mind, I've been using Gemini with my Android phone when I'm behind the wheel. I've given it a variety of tasks to perform and questions to answer.
Also: Does Android Auto make your phone overheat? Try these 8 ways to cool it down
With Google's AI, you can send emails and messages, ask for playlist suggestions, get information on local restaurants and businesses via Google Maps, set reminders, ask any question on your mind, play a game, listen to a story, and more.
How did Gemini perform in my experience? You'll have to read on to find out. But here's how I've been using Gemini and how you can, as well.
How to set up and use Gemini in the car
What you need: To rev up Gemini through Android Auto, you need an Android phone and a car that supports Android Auto. Check Google's "Find your ride with Android Auto" page to see if your car's stereo or multimedia system is compatible.
If you have the right phone and car, let's go through the initial steps.
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