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Use Android Auto? How to limit what information Gemini learns about you

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Why This Matters

As Android Auto integrates Gemini, the AI assistant, into vehicles, it raises important privacy concerns due to data collection like location and microphone access. While convenient, users need to be aware of the potential for sensitive information to be shared with Google, emphasizing the importance of adjusting privacy settings. This development underscores the ongoing balance between technological convenience and user privacy in the automotive industry.

Key Takeaways

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ZDNET's key takeaways

With Gemini now in Android Auto, some users have concerns.

Gemini logs where you drive and has an always-on microphone.

There are settings to easily change what Gemini accesses.

Android Auto can be an incredible convenience in your vehicle, but you're offering up a lot of potentially sensitive information to Google the more you connect -- especially when it comes to Gemini.

Gemini became the default option over Assistant several months ago, and it unlocked a ton of new features and capabilities. A lot of people weren't necessarily happy about giving AI access to their calls, texts, and even location while on the road. Unfortunately, if you're trying to turn off Gemini entirely from Android Auto, that's not an option.

Also: I made 7 changes to my Android Auto setup for better functionality when I'm driving

A little more than a year ago, ZDNET's Jack Wallen covered 5 tweaks to protect your privacy from AI. Now that Gemini is along for your daily drive, too, it's time to address privacy in your car.

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