Dive Brief:
- Volvo Cars is expanding its partnership with Google to rapidly deploy its Gemini AI-powered assistant to more of its vehicles featuring Google built-in, the automaker announced on May 21.
- As part of the expanded collaboration, Volvo vehicles will serve as one of Google’s reference hardware platforms for the future deployment of Android Automotive OS (AAOS), which is designed to replace an OEM vehicle infotainment system.
- “We're excited to deepen this partnership, accelerating the pace of innovation that will not only improve the driving experience for Volvo customers but also set new benchmarks for the automotive industry,” said Patrick Brady, VP of Android for Cars at Google, in the release.
Dive Insight:
The more feature-rich Gemini AI-powered voice assistant will replace the current Google Assistant of Volvo vehicles later this year, making the automaker’s customers among the first to access the latest version of Google’s generative AI technology.
Gemini allows drivers and passengers to request information about virtually any topic using natural conversations. For example, drivers can ask Gemini questions about the vehicle’s user manual or request specific details about a destination before arriving. The AI-powered assistant can also help drivers draft messages, which can be translated into over 40 different languages before sending.
Google has also selected Volvo Cars as its lead development partner for testing new features and updates, before adding them to the Android codebase for access to software developers.
The Android codebase is known as the “Android Open Source Project” and the software it contains is free for developers to use. The platform allows anyone to view, modify and distribute code for their own use. Google offers the developer community extensive resources and guidelines for creating Android-based apps.
According to Volvo, its expanded partnership with Google will help “accelerate advancements in the connected car space for the entire automotive industry” and for drivers globally.
“We strive to deliver human-centric technology, and a stunning customer experience is an essential part of this,” said Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars, in the release. “With our expanding partnership, we’re collaborating on cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of connected cars.”
The Google partnership with Volvo advances the rollout of AAOS currently used by Volvo Cars. Vehicles running AAOS do not require syncing with a smartphone for access to popular Google services. Volvo vehicles with Google built-in come with Google Play, Google Assistant, Google Maps and other popular apps.
For Volvo models equipped with AAOS, the vehicle’s infotainment system serves as a standalone Android device. Drivers can download and install Android or other-third party apps directly to their vehicle’s infotainment system. The latest version of AAOS was released in December 2024.
In addition to future Volvo vehicles, Gemini will be made available for other OEM brands featuring Google built-in later this year, including the new Lincoln Nautilus, Honda Passport and select Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC and Acura vehicles.
Google also announced that it is adding Gemini to Android Auto in the coming months, which can mirror apps wirelessly on compatible models from a smartphone that’s synced to a vehicle.
