A growing number of Android Auto users are reporting an issue that prevents them from making phone calls using voice commands. The problem stems from Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, which has recently begun replacing the traditional Google Assistant on in-vehicle dashboards.
The Nature of the Issue
When drivers issue a hands-free command asking Gemini to call a contact, the system abruptly halts the process. Instead of placing the call, it displays the error message: “Something went wrong. Please try again.” This malfunction breaks the hands-free functionality, a critical safety feature designed to help drivers maintain their focus on the road.
According to affected users on various social media platforms, standard troubleshooting methods have proven ineffective. Attempts to resolve the bug by reinstalling the Google and Gemini applications, or by rebooting the car’s infotainment multimedia system, do not fix the issue.
Current Status and Root Cause
Google has not yet officially acknowledged the glitch, meaning there is no official fix available. Because the bug does not affect all users simultaneously, experts suggest that it may be linked to server-side adjustments by Google. If this is the case, a permanent resolution will likely come in the form of a silent, background update rolled out directly by the company.
Temporary Solution
For drivers who rely on voice-activated calling and cannot wait for an official patch, a temporary workaround is available. Users can manually revert their default digital assistant from Gemini back to the classic Google Assistant.
How to switch back:
- Open the Settings menu on your Android smartphone.
- Navigate to the Digital Assistant or Google Assistant settings.
- Select Google Assistant as the primary choice instead of Gemini.
This restoration temporarily bypasses the Gemini bug, restoring hands-free calling capabilities in Android Auto until Google deploys a permanent software correction.
Edit: Google states this issue has now been fixed. Users still affected should check for app updates via the Google Play Store.
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