Google Maps on CarPlay now lets you talk to Gemini while you drive

Google Maps on Apple CarPlay now lets you talk to Gemini while you navigate. Gemini is Google's AI assistant. CarPlay is Apple's system that shows your iPhone apps on your car's screen. The update is available now in the US, and a global rollout is underway.

What changed

While you are navigating, a Gemini icon appears on the right edge of the screen. Tap it to ask multi-step questions or give commands. You can also use your voice to report traffic disruptions.

This is the first time Google Maps has offered a voice assistant in CarPlay. Before, Google Assistant worked only when you used Maps navigation directly on your iPhone.

The traffic reporting matches an experience Google introduced on Maps for Android and iOS last year. It is already available in Android Auto, Google's own car system.

What is not known yet

The source does not say what the feature costs or whether any car or iPhone models are left out. It also gives no dates for countries outside the US, only that the global rollout is underway. The full list of example commands did not come through in the material, so it is unclear exactly what Gemini can do beyond multi-step questions and traffic reports.

If you already use Google Maps in your car, check the navigation screen for the Gemini icon. Voice can be easier than tapping while you drive.