Gemini on Android Auto can access my photos, emails, and calendar now – why I’m OK with that (mostly)

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Google is rolling out Gemini Personal Intelligence on Android Auto starting today.
• This gives the AI assistant access to your Photos, Gmail, Calendar, and more.
• It’s an opt-in feature, and you can select which apps and services to permit access to.

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It was only a matter of time. After rolling out Gemini across Android Auto and cars with Google built-in late last year, the Mountain View giant is now launching phase two of its AI world domination. Sorry, I mean… launching enhancements to the AI assistant to help you live more productively.

Also: 6 Android Auto apps I wish I discovered sooner

Starting today, you may grant Gemini on Android Auto access to your Gmail, Calendar, Photos, and other native services to provide tailored responses. It’s Personal Intelligence, but for your car. 

How does Personal Intelligence help?

Google first launched Personal Intelligence on Android phones and in Search, allowing its AI engine to tap into, retrieve, and synthesize information across your personal apps. My colleague, Elyse Betters Picaro, put it to the test back in April and found the tailored results very helpful.

That’s why the big push for Personal Intelligence in Android Auto makes a lot of sense. Swapping out Google Assistant for Gemini, which allows users to communicate with the software in natural language, has already made the driving experience more frictionless.

Also: This Gemini setting made my AI results way more accurate

Now, by giving the AI added context, such as your upcoming schedule, flights, or miscellaneous photos (think receipts, concert posters, etc.), you’re more likely to get higher-quality and relevant responses. In theory, that means fewer follow-up questions, less need to clarify things (because Gemini is not always perfect), and more focused driving.

For example, you may ask Gemini which gate your upcoming flight is in and whether there are any delays on departure. If you’re asking about nearby restaurant recommendations, Gemini may cite your search history and emails, note that you’re vegan, and base its suggestions on the dietary restriction.

If Personal Intelligence is turned off, and it will be by default since it’s an opt-in service, Gemini’s responses will continue to be based on general knowledge.

Can I trust Personal Intelligence?

Google has stated previously that all information processed through Personal Intelligence remains within the company’s existing secure infrastructure, meaning it isn’t distributed to any third-party services. Gemini also doesn’t train foundational AI models on personal context, so your information is reserved for your use only.

You can opt in and out of Personal Intelligence at any time, and if you’ve already permitted access to it on your Gemini profile, then it’ll carry over when you’re in the car. For what it’s worth, Google lets you toggle access for specific apps and groups, including the following:

• Google Photos
• Google Maps
• Search and Discovery Data
• YouTube and YouTube History
• Google Workspace (Gmail, Calendar, and Drive)

You can also delete stored memory items, such as past conversations with Gemini, in case you don’t want the assistant to bring up the time you asked about the blinking symbol in your dashboard.

Gemini, take the wheel

I can think of several times when I just wished Gemini understood me better when I’m driving, whether it’s basing artist and song results on those I frequently listen to, or finding me a gas station near EWR instead of JFK because I’ve only ever flown out of one in the last year.

Also: How I open-sourced my smart home in a weekend

Upgrading the AI’s context with Personal Intelligence should fix most of those problems, though I’m not holding my breath for a near-flawless exchange every time. I also wonder whether digging deeper for information will noticeably delay Gemini’s responses, especially when I’m on the road and the signal may not always be reliable.