Mazda Canada announces the arrival of Google Gemini aboard the new CX-5 equipped with Google built-in. The rollout of this voice assistant is taking place gradually for eligible users. The goal is to allow drivers to state their requests in everyday language, without having to memorize specific commands.
Announced on October 26, the integration notably affects navigation, communications, entertainment and certain vehicle functions. Gemini can also account for conversational context and answer follow-up questions without requiring the user to restart their request from the beginning.
A conversation rather than a series of commands
In practice, owners will be able to ask the assistant to find a restaurant or a destination, and then refine their search over the course of the exchange. The integration of Google Maps will also allow users to obtain traffic information, driving directions, and recommendations along the route.
On the entertainment side, Mazda says users can request content from apps like Spotify and YouTube Music. The assistant can suggest playlists based on the mood or activity described by the user.
Gemini will also be involved in the sphere of communications, so for example it can allow users to send messages and share their arrival time hands-free. Certain tasks and conversations started on a phone can be continued inside the CX-5 via compatible Google services.
Certain vehicle controls supported
The assistant is not limited to applications. It can also control compatible vehicle functions, for instance climate control settings, and provide information about the CX-5 based on questions phrased in everyday language.
Said Amy Fleming, President and CEO of Mazda Canada, “Technology is at its best when it is intuitive and knows how to remain unobtrusive.”
Mazda says the voice interactions should reduce the need to browse menus and settings on screen. This is a main goal it cited, though it did not provide any metrics regarding distraction reduction in its announcement.
A gradual rollout
The rollout will take place in the new CX-5 equipped with Google built-in. Mazda specifies that access to Gemini is being rolled out gradually to eligible users, and it did not provide a detailed timeline for Canada.
The manufacturer also anticipates the assistant’s evolution through software updates, with the addition of functions and support for supplementary languages. While Mazda Canada did not specify which languages will be available at launch, in the UK the system will be offered off the bat in several languages, including English and French.