Gemini on Android Auto struggles to recognise contact names for calls and texts

Some Android Auto users say Google's Gemini assistant does not recognise names when they try to make a call or send a text by voice. A report from 9to5Google, published on 5 November 2026, describes this as the latest in a series of problems that followed the switch to Gemini on the in-car system.

The same report says the change has also brought some useful new features, so the issues are not the whole story. The excerpt we reviewed does not say how many drivers are affected, which Android Auto versions or car models are involved, or whether Google has confirmed the fault. At the time of writing, we have not seen a second outlet report the same problem, so the scope remains unclear.

Drivers who rely on hands-free calling and messaging are the most likely to notice the fault. Until more detail is available, it makes sense to test voice contact commands in your own car, to keep an eye on app updates, and to treat the feature as unreliable rather than assuming it will work every time. We will update this page if further reports or an official statement appear.