Gemini Fails to Deliver Hands-Free Calling on Android Auto
Google is removing its Assistant option in September, leaving Gemini as the only official digital assistant for Android. This move has raised concerns about hands-free voice calling, which has been plagued with issues on Gemini. Users have reported that Gemini often fails to make calls when connected to Android Auto.
The problem has been ongoing since June 2026, when a 'Something went wrong' issue affected both Android and Android Auto users. This has prompted some to return to using Assistant for hands-free calling.
Users who have switched to Gemini have experienced difficulties with voice calling, even after clearing the cache and deleting storage. The issue persists when connected to Android Auto, making it a driver safety concern.
In 2024, over 3,200 lives were lost in the US due to distracted driving. With Gemini as the only option for hands-free calling on Android, this number may increase.