Google has officially confirmed the removal of the Assistant "Driving Mode" from Google Maps on Android. If you’ve recently noticed the disappearance of the familiar bar that used to appear at the bottom of your screen while navigating, you’re not alone. Google’s decision to phase out this feature is part of a broader shift, as the company plans to replace Google Assistant with Gemini later in 2025.
Many users were first introduced to Assistant Driving Mode in 2019, designed to replace Android Auto for phone screens. Initially, the feature offered a rich dashboard that made navigating, controlling media, and using apps like Spotify, Waze, YouTube Music, and Telegram seamless and accessible while driving. However, in 2024, the experience was pared down significantly, with many apps being removed from the interface, leaving just a simple bar for accessing Google Assistant and media controls.
Now, with the full removal of this feature, Google has shifted its focus to other ways users can interact with Google Maps and Android. Users are encouraged to use the Assistant button at the top-right corner of the screen to issue map-related commands, such as finding nearby gas stations or getting alternate routes. Notifications for calls and texts are now handled through the device’s notification system, and music controls can be accessed through a floating action button (FAB) if enabled via the Maps Settings > Navigation menu.
This move comes as part of a larger strategy to introduce Gemini, Google's next-generation AI assistant, later this year. While the current driving mode experience will not be integrated into Gemini, Google assures users that new AI-driven capabilities will provide more advanced features for driving and beyond. As Android evolves, these changes highlight the ongoing shift towards AI-driven interfaces and smarter ways of interacting with technology, especially while on the road.
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