In 2026, there’s no shortage of amazing tech in new vehicles. From advanced autonomous driving and intelligent safety systems to theater-rivaling screens. And we’ll likely see even more before 2027. But GM has a plan to not only introduce new tech in its upcoming models but also older models from as far back as 2022. Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, and Buick models 2022 and newer will be getting an update that puts cutting-edge tech in the cabin, so if your vehicle falls under the aforementioned umbrella, you may be in for a techy surprise in the near future.
Millions Of GM Models Will Be Getting An Intuitive Google Gemini AI Assistant
Late last year, GM shared its vision of upcoming in-car technology during the GM Forward announcement, which discussed advanced vehicle tech ranging from eyes-off driving to central computing platforms that define the term “smart car.” During the reveal, GM also shared an update coming for Google built-in-equipped vehicles, wherein they will get the Gemini AI assistant that will take their in-car experience to the next level. While many despise AI for how dependent we’ve become on it in such a short time, there’s no denying that it is an impressive technology.
Automakers feel the same way, seeing as AI is worming its way into more and more new vehicles with every update. GM is wasting no time getting in on the next wave, though it’s not limiting the AI update to new models only. The latest announcement from the American giant details plans to bring AI to millions of Chevy, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC models, including both current models and eligible models from as far back as 2022.
This is noteworthy not only because the Google Gemini system it plans to integrate is very intuitive (more on that in a bit), but also because, in some cases, the vehicle getting a new-age AI update could already be out of warranty. Now, only models with Google built-in will be eligible for Gemini AI, though, as of writing, warranty has no bearing on whether they’ll receive the update or not. According to the announcement, there are approximately four million eligible vehicles on US roads, and this rollout will be the largest Gemini has experienced in the auto industry. But what exactly can this AI assistant do that your current system can’t? The answer goes far beyond basic voice commands.
The Gemini Update Will Allow Your In-Car Assistant To Do Everything But Cook You Dinner
Unlike the rigid voice commands GM owners are used to, Gemini transforms how you interact with your vehicle. Cars equipped with Google built-in already can perform basic tasks, like changing songs, making calls, and responding to texts, though the Gemini system is far more… human. Occupants can ask it to do several things, from finding music to fit their mood to having a philosophical conversation about the meaning of life. The update allows occupants to speak in a more natural tone, without having to memorize prompts that were previously the only way to perform hands-free tasks.
To make things clearer, GM provided a list of actions one can request from the Google Gemini system, which includes advanced text summarizing and response ability that can even translate, curated entertainment that can listen to a podcast and give a summary of it for you, and even find a playlist the exact length of your trip. It can tailor your route and in-car mood settings on the fly, which, along with its intuitive route planning, makes it a handy piece of tech for servicemen and women who routinely make several stops throughout their day—you can queue up several stops, as well as a lunch break, all without missing an appointment.
Gemini Handles Your Side Quests
One of the most interesting aspects is its ability to understand and respond to natural language, which means you don’t have to mince words or find the right thing to say, just say it. If you want to discuss the best way to ask your boss for a raise, Gemini will brainstorm with you on your way to the office. You want vacation ideas with certain amenities and nearby attractions? Gemini will find it and give you an optimized route to get there, as well as provide a playlist that gets you and your family in the mood for your upcoming destination. With Amazon Music, Apple Music, Audible, HBO Max, Hulu, Prime Video, Spotify, TuneIn, YouTube, and more, entertainment will be the least of your worries.
Availability includes, as mentioned, 2022 model year and newer Cadillac, GMC, Chevy, and Buicks with Google built-in. GM says the AI tech will be delivered over the course of several months, and eligible vehicles will receive a prompt to accept the OTA update when it’s ready. So, if you get into your vehicle in the coming months and see such a prompt, you’re one step away from having future tech at your disposal.
Source: GM