Recent reports from Android Auto users indicate a troubling trend with the Gemini smart home control feature, which has unexpectedly ceased to function for many. This issue follows a similar pattern observed among Wear OS users, who experienced problems with Gemini’s ability to manage smart home devices. Although Google announced a fix for the Wear OS concerns, the root cause of the Android Auto malfunction remains elusive.
Users Report Malfunctions
In a lively discussion on the r/AndroidAuto subreddit, one user shared their frustration, noting that commands like turning on the air conditioning have suddenly stopped working. Instead, Gemini now responds with a message stating it “cannot control smart home devices through Google Maps while driving,” despite the feature operating smoothly for months prior to this disruption.
This sentiment is echoed by other users, who have reported a range of issues, from failed smart home commands to Gemini’s refusal to execute tasks, reminders, and calendar requests. Interestingly, some users have found that these commands still function correctly within the Gemini app itself, prompting a few to revert back to Google Assistant in search of reliability.
The precise cause of these disruptions is still under investigation. Speculation suggests that it could be linked to a server-side bug or an unannounced change in functionality, but without confirmation from Google, the community is left in the dark. Efforts to obtain a statement from Google regarding the situation are ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.
