In a landmark development for automotive technology, Google's advanced Gemini AI assistant is poised to reach millions of older Volvo models through what the company describes as "one of the biggest over-the-air updates in the history of the world." This significant upgrade will provide drivers with enhanced, hands-free control and a more personalised driving experience.
Free Wireless Upgrade for Compatible Models
The comprehensive update will be delivered completely free of charge to Volvo vehicles manufactured from 2020 onwards that are equipped with Google's Android Automotive operating system, which the Swedish automaker markets as Google built-in. The wireless nature of the over-the-air update means owners won't need to visit dealerships to receive the substantial technological enhancement.
Transforming the Driving Experience
Google's Gemini AI assistant, already integrated into Volvo's latest EX60 model, offers drivers sophisticated voice-activated capabilities through natural conversation. The system can perform numerous practical tasks including locating hotel addresses, determining whether specific items will fit in the vehicle's boot, and even brainstorming trip ideas. This hands-free functionality allows motorists to maintain focus on the road rather than interacting with touchscreen displays.
Volvo's Chief Engineering & Technology Officer, Anders Bell, confirmed the ambitious rollout during the launch of the new all-electric EX60. "The Google Gemini stuff from the EX60, if you have a Volvo car which is model year 2021 or later, you will get it," Bell stated. "You will get Gemini in your 2021 model year XC40. It's one of the biggest over-the-air updates in the history of the world."
Comprehensive Model Coverage
The extensive update will benefit numerous Volvo models including the XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, and V90 Cross Country. Newer iterations of the XC60 and XC90 featuring Google built-in technology will also receive the upgrade. Meanwhile, Volvo's most recent electric vehicles, the EX30 and EX90, are already benefiting from continuous improvements to their Google built-in systems.
Two-Tier Enhancement Approach
Bell outlined a strategic two-step implementation process for the update. "We're going back there, and it's going to be a two-tier, two-step approach," he explained. The initial phase involves deploying a substantial Human-Machine Interface (HMI) overhaul based on Volvo's latest learnings from models like the EX90 and EX60.
"We're going to take the HMI that we have in EX90 and the same thing as we have in the EX60 – the difference is just screen size and screen orientation," Bell detailed. "We're going to deploy that back to those cars to give them a necessary, very nice upgrade of their interaction experience with the car."
Enhanced User Interface Features
Following the HMI improvements, the second phase will replace the current Google Assistant with the more advanced Gemini AI. Drivers will benefit from several interface enhancements including the ability to customise their home screens with frequently used applications for quicker access. Additionally, a contextual bar at the bottom of displays will adapt content according to driving situations while showing recently used apps.
Bell also indicated that digital driver displays are likely to receive substantial improvements as part of the comprehensive update package. "All those improvements will be updated in the cars first," he confirmed. "And once that's done, it's a pretty easy update to replace the current Google assistant with Gemini."
Imminent Rollout with Quality Assurance
The ambitious technological upgrade is currently in its final testing and validation stages, with Bell promising that updates would begin rolling out in the coming months. "It's coming soon," he announced. "The first one is in the final touches of that edition. We need to be sure of the quality and be spotless here."
This represents a significant commitment from Volvo to extend cutting-edge technology to existing vehicle owners rather than reserving such advancements exclusively for new models. The move demonstrates how over-the-air updates are fundamentally transforming automotive ownership experiences, allowing vehicles to improve substantially throughout their operational lifetimes.
