I tested Gemini on Android Auto and now I can't stop talking to it: 5 tasks it nails

Innovation Home Innovation Artificial Intelligence I tested Gemini on Android Auto and now I can't stop talking to it: 5 tasks it nails I didn't see much benefit for Google's AI - until now. Here are my favorite ways to use the new Gemini integration in my car. Written by Artie Beaty, Contributing WriterContributing Writer April 6, 2026 at 10:55 a.m. PT Kerry Wan/ZDNETFollow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.ZDNET's key takeawaysGemini is now widely available in Android Auto.It can integrate with Google services and other apps.The AI answered both simple and complex, multi-step questions. Despite Google's insistence on packing artificial intelligence into nearly every conceivable product, I haven't really found too much day-to-day use for it. That might change now. Over the weekend, I noticed my Android Auto had updated to include Gemini. I decided to give it a quick test, and it deftly answered my questions. When I started to dive deeper, though, I was surprised by just how much it could do and how easily it handled what I thought were more complex asks.Also: Your Android Auto just got 5 useful upgrades for free - and Google isn't doneHere are some of the best ways I'm using the new Gemini integration. To get started for yourself, you can either use the mic button on your steering wheel or say "Hey Google." 1. Finding hours or other information about local businessesWhen using my phone in the car, most of the time I'm checking hours for a local business or res...