Google's AI voice assistant Gemini will officially support Apple CarPlay. iPhone users can talk naturally with Gemini on a vehicle display and handle various tasks such as checking email and managing schedules.

InsideEVs reported on Nov. 12 that Google has been gradually expanding Gemini Live support for CarPlay worldwide since the previous day. It is widening its AI service reach to Apple’s in-vehicle platform, following Android Auto and Google built-in vehicles.

The key is natural voice conversation. Drivers can ask complex questions at once or add follow-up questions during an answer. They can also change topics or pause and resume the conversation.

It also supports integration with work services such as Google Gmail and Calendar. If users allow the necessary access permissions, they can summarise unread emails or check the day’s schedule. It also offers features such as helping prepare for the next meeting or getting restaurant recommendations near a destination.

Conversation content is automatically synchronised with the Gemini app on the iPhone. Users can review conversations and summaries exchanged while driving on their smartphone after parking.

However, to run Gemini, users must tap the app icon directly on the vehicle screen or side menu. A feature to call the app using only voice commands is not provided. After launch, users can converse by voice without additional screen操作.

To use it, users must install the latest Gemini app on the iPhone and allow microphone permission. They also need a record of running Gemini Live at least once on the smartphone. If these conditions are met, the Gemini app will appear when connected to CarPlay.

The feature will be rolled out in phases for all languages supported by Gemini Live. Some personalised functions may be limited depending on region and account.

Google introduced Gemini last month to the CarPlay version of Google Maps. This time, it expanded support so users can run Gemini directly, separate from the Maps app.

As competition over in-car AI assistants expands, competition over services that cross the platform boundary between Google and Apple is also moving into full swing.