Renault is rolling out Google's Gemini AI voice-activated assistant for its cars using the 'OpenR Link' infotainment touchscreen.
Is this a big deal?
Quite big, yes. Up till now, voice-activated in-car assistants have been pretty limited in their abilities and very often give you the default 'I don't know how to do that…' answer. Google's Gemini is not omniscient or anything, but it's very clever, and you really can chat to it as you would a normal person (although it does tend to end each reply with a follow-up question unless you tell it not to…).
How does Google's Gemini AI work in a Renault?
Most Renault models use Google-based software already for their touchscreens. It's how you can log into your Google account in, say, a Renault 5 E-Tech, and get all your previous Google Maps searches up on the screen in your car. Gemini is now part of that package.
Do I have to buy a new Renault to get this?
No, Gemini is rolling out as a software download, so it can be added to Renault models that are already on the road with the right software. The update arrives over the air, so there's no need for a visit to a dealership. It's available on all Renault models from the Twingo to the Rafale, and the roll-out started on June 15th.
Do I have to use it?
Nope. If you're an AI agnostic, you don't have to. There will be an opt-in page when you log in to your Google account in the car, which will let you turn Gemini off. If that's your decision, you can revert to using the older Google Assistant if you want to.
What kind of functions can Google's Gemini help with?
As far as driving is concerned, Gemini can control features such as air conditioning, navigation, radio, and settings, and, in the Renault 4 E-Tech Plein Sud, can even open or close the full-length sunroof. More importantly, it can also access vehicle data, such as EV range, for route planning, helping you to pick charging points on a long journey.
Other than that, Gemini is designed to be able to deal with multiple requests at once, so you can issue it a string of instructions or ask it a number of questions, and it should be able to cope with them all one by one. In theory, Gemini can also interpret normal speech, so you can say things like: "Hey Google, take me to Paris but avoid the ring road” or "Hey Google. It's very hot today. What's the best way to cut fuel consumption: opening the windows or turning on the aircon?” or even "What are the results of yesterday's football world cup matches?” Just don't forget to say 'thanks' so that you're not first against the wall when the robot apocalypse comes…
What languages does Google Gemini understand?
Initially, Gemini will be able to work in 13 languages, including English, French, German, Swedish, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Danish, Norwegian and Turkish.
Ah, but can it handle an Irish accent?
Good question. We've used Google Gemini before, and it coped, but we weren't using our full-on Cork City accent. We'll try that next time and report back…