Andy Walker / Android authority
Tl; DR
- Android users can no longer access the Google Assistant driving mode.
- The function has disappeared in the Google application and on the cards.
- We do not know if it is an intentional error or deletion.
Last year, Google deleted the Assistant driving mode application launcher, reducing the functionality to a simple vocal bar. Given the company’s plans to eliminate Google Assistant, the depreciation of this functionality is not a big surprise. What is a surprise, however, is that the driving mode seems to be completely gone now, without alternative to replace it.
According to 9TO5GOOGLEGoogle Assistant Driving Mode can no longer be accessible in Maps for Android. The driving mode would have disappeared on the last stable versions of maps and the Google application. It is not clear if the function has been deleted by mistake or intentionally.
If you are not familiar with this feature, it would appear as a black bar at the bottom of your screen when using the MAPS application. You can use it to have assistant reading messages, inform yourself of calls and control the supports. This is a fairly practical feature for those who do not want to remove the hands from the steering wheel to navigate their phone.
Although it is unknown if the functionality will be restored, we know that Gemini will eventually land on Android Auto and Android Automotive. Google has included this as one of the subjects she discusses during E / S 2025, which is scheduled for May 20 to 21.
