Autonomous vehicle technology company Waymo has officially introduced a redesigned in-cabin passenger interface powered by Google’s Gemini AI for its next-generation Ojai vehicle fleet.
Designed specifically to take full advantage of the significantly larger touchscreens fitted within Ojai vehicles compared to the smaller displays on earlier Jaguar I-Pace models, this software rollout represents the first major passenger interface redesign for the company in several years.
The incorporation of Gemini enables passengers to access interactive conversational assistance directly through a dedicated button situated on the primary touchscreen. Appearing as a clean interface overlay, the AI assistant can answer queries regarding nearby local businesses, explain regional historical landmarks, and provide general journey details, Waymo service information, or everyday knowledge.
Beyond conversational assistance, Gemini supports voice commands for basic cabin management, allowing passengers to adjust internal climate settings or request a vehicle pull-over. Waymo emphasized that Gemini operates completely independently from the underlying Waymo Driver autonomous control system. The AI assistant does not have access to real-time driving data and cannot control vehicle routing, steering, acceleration, or driving navigation mechanics.
Alongside Gemini integration, the software update introduces a choreographed tri-screen display system designed to tailor content based on real-time seat occupancy. Rather than duplicating identical visuals across all passenger monitors, display functions adapt depending on where riders are seated. For instance, if a solo passenger occupies the right rear seat, that specific display will present full interactive controls while adjacent screens display a simplified ride status or ambient media visuals.
The visual overhaul also features enlarged touch targets to streamline media and climate adjustments while keeping essential trip metrics clearly visible. Additionally, a new “Calm Mode” feature allows passengers to dim the vehicle displays and minimize trip information for a low-distraction visual environment ahead of broader public availability.
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