Polestar, the electric and high-performance brand with Swedish roots but Chinese ownership, has just announced that it's introducing built-in Google Gemini to its cars, to act as an AI voice assistant.
What benefits will this bring?
The idea is that Google Gemini - because it's a Large Language Model AI (LLM) - can understand what you mean, even if you're not using specific, pre-coded phrases and words. Which means that if you ask it a slightly rambling question, or give it a mildly confusing order to open the back windows while also turning on the heated seats, it should be able to understand you and work out what you want.
According to Polestar: "The advanced AI assistant will understand, ask follow-up questions, and interpret complex intent, making the interaction feel as natural as speaking with a passenger. The previous experience with Google Assistant required distinct commands, such as "Hey Google, navigate to a supermarket.” With Gemini, drivers can now use complex, conversational queries, such as "Hey Google, let's find a supermarket on the way home, and let Joe know I am on my way.”
Anything else?
Yes, as well as Google Gemini, Polestar cars will now have access to Gemini Live, which is a full-on conversation bot. Per Polestar: "Gemini Live will listen and can help brainstorm gift ideas, dinner recipes, shopping lists and much more.” The system can also help you translate incoming or outgoing texts or emails if you need to communicate with someone in a different language.
Do I have to use it?
No, not if you don't want to. Once installed, there will be a pop-up window on the touchscreen which allows you to opt in or opt out, but the plan is that Gemini will, in pretty short order, replace the existing Google Assistant tech in all of Polestar's models.
When is this all happening?
More or less right away, although it will be focused on the US market first of all, and then rolled out to European and other global markets. There's no need for any additional hardware nor a visit to the dealership - Gemini will be added to your Polestar via an over-the-air update.
Hans Bleckert, Connected Car Manager at Polestar, said: "Google Gemini represents a fundamental shift for Polestar drivers and how they interact with their vehicles. Together with Google, we replace outdated command structures with an advanced AI model that enables free-flowing conversation between Polestar vehicles and drivers. And this is only the beginning. With Gemini, we enter a new period of possibilities with the focus on creating better user experiences.”