Gemini on Android Auto: Slow Rollout & What You Need to Know

Months after Google announced the wider rollout of Gemini on Android Auto, the AI assistant is finally becoming more broadly available to users, though the process remains uneven. While initial reports in November 2025 indicated a global rollout in 45 languages, many drivers continued to report issues accessing the feature well into 2026.

The rollout has been described as “much slower than expected,” with users across Reddit, YouTube, and other online forums reporting that they still have not received access despite having updated devices and apps, and having switched from Google Assistant to Gemini on their phones. As of late January 2026, a 9to5Google poll showed that 92% of respondents did not have Gemini on Android Auto.

Slow Rollout Coincides with Google Assistant Issues

The delayed rollout of Gemini comes as some Android Auto users have experienced increasing issues with Google Assistant functionality. Reports surfaced in January 2026 of Assistant failing to carry out tasks it previously handled without issue, such as understanding navigation directions. Some users have been forced to revert to their car’s built-in navigation systems due to these problems.

According to TechRadar, the situation has left users frustrated, as they are experiencing broken functionality in Android Auto while waiting for the Gemini upgrade. One user reported that Google Assistant now frequently responds with “I didn’t understand that” when given voice commands.

Mixed Initial Reactions to Gemini on Android Auto

Early reactions to Gemini on Android Auto have been mixed. While some users appreciate the conversational nature of the AI assistant while driving, others have encountered bugs. These include Gemini continuing to speak after an action has been completed on the touchscreen, and instances of Gemini “talking to itself” or cutting itself off mid-sentence.

A Reddit user reported in January 2026 that using Gemini with Android Auto made the system “ten times slower,” prompting them to switch back to Google Assistant.

Google’s Vague Timeline and Beta Program Attempts

Google initially announced plans to roll out Gemini to Android Auto in May 2025, with the rollout beginning in November 2025. However, the company provided a vague timeline, stating that the feature would be available “over the coming months.” This lack of clarity has contributed to user frustration, particularly as Google Assistant’s performance has reportedly declined.

Some users have attempted to gain access to Gemini by joining the Android Auto beta program, though this is not a guaranteed solution and is not officially recommended by Google. As of late January 2026, there was no clear method for users to force access to the feature.

New Media Controls Also Rolling Out

Alongside the Gemini rollout, Android Auto is also receiving new media controls. These updates are intended to improve the user experience while listening to music or podcasts in the car, though details on the specific improvements were not immediately available.

The staggered rollout of Gemini and the concurrent issues with Google Assistant highlight the challenges of transitioning to new AI-powered features in a complex automotive environment. While Google aims to enhance the driving experience with Gemini, the current situation demonstrates the importance of a smooth and reliable rollout process.