Google Gemini is coming to GM cars in 2026: smarter in‑car AI, OTA to 2015+ models, and a move away from CarPlay/Android Auto

GM will integrate Google Gemini, a conversational AI assistant, into many of its cars, trucks and SUVs starting in 2026. The Gemini-based assistant will tap into vehicle data to flag maintenance issues, plan routes, explain features, and even control HVAC before you enter the vehicle. GM says Gemini’s natural language prowess should outperform traditional voice assistants on accents and phrasing.

Key features at a glance

• Vehicle-aware assistance: Access to vehicle telemetry to surface maintenance concerns and alerts.
• Smarter voice and context: LLM-powered understanding for more natural requests and fewer “exact phrase” failures.
• Web-integrated answers: Ask questions tied to your surroundings (e.g., the history of a bridge you’re crossing).
• Trip and comfort controls: Route planning plus pre-entry controls like turning on heat or A/C.
• Easier help: The assistant can explain how in-car features work, on demand.

Rollout and availability

• Over-the-air upgrade: Delivered via the Google Play Store after launch to OnStar-equipped vehicles.
• Broad compatibility: GM says support will extend to model year 2015 and newer, not just brand-new cars.
• From “Google built-in” to Gemini: The new assistant will evolve/replace the current Google built-in experience (Maps, Assistant, etc.) with Gemini at the core.
• GM’s own chatbot: A separate, GM-built AI assistant is in development with timing TBD.

Privacy and data controls

After regulatory scrutiny of driver data practices (including an FTC order restricting GM from selling driver data for five years), GM says the Gemini integration will be privacy-focused. Drivers will be able to control what information the assistant can access and use.

Ecosystem changes ahead

• CarPlay and Android Auto: GM plans to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto over the next few years as it leans into its own in-vehicle platforms and assistants.
• 2028 roadmap: The company also outlined a self-driving platform and a new in-house computing platform slated for 2028.

What it means

• Upside: Deeper, vehicle-aware AI could reduce friction for navigation, maintenance and learning features—without the rigid voice command syntax of legacy systems.
• Trade-offs: Moving away from CarPlay/Android Auto may frustrate drivers who prefer phone mirroring; execution and app availability will be critical.
• Trust: Clear, easy-to-use privacy controls and transparent data use will be essential for adoption.

Sources and further reading:
GM (official site) ·
Google Gemini ·
Coverage and details

Discussion: Would a Gemini-powered assistant and OTA support back to 2015 sway you to GM’s native system—or is the phase-out of CarPlay/Android Auto a dealbreaker?