Gemini voice calling on Android Auto keeps failing me - and Google has until September to fix it
With Google Assistant shutting down this fall, Android users will be left with inferior voice calling, thanks to Gemini.
Google is set to retire its Assistant tool in September, leaving Android users with only Gemini as a digital assistant. However, this change has proven problematic for hands-free voice calling, particularly when connected to Android Auto. For years, I have relied on Android Auto for voice calling, but recently, Gemini has failed to deliver reliable results.
In June 2026, Gemini experienced issues with voice calling, and users were forced to revert to the more reliable Assistant. Despite clearing the Gemini cache and storage, the problem persisted. In a Reddit thread, users shared similar experiences, such as Gemini failing to play music or place calls. The combination of Gemini and Android Auto creates an unreliable feature, prompting drivers to look away from the road and risk accidents.
The issue is not limited to voice calling; third-party launchers also struggle with Gemini's overlay. Google must either reintroduce Assistant or prioritize improving Gemini's hands-free calling capabilities before Assistant is completely phased out. Lives are at stake, and it is critical that Google addresses this safety issue before it's too late.
Written by urgent.news from ZDNet's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
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