The feature, which has not shipped in public builds, is said to have the ability to answer questions, manage certain in-cabin functions like climate control, and, if required, reassure riders. In a statement to TechCrunch, Julia Ilina, a spokesperson for Waymo, said, "While we have no details to share today, our team is always tinkering with features to make riding with Waymo delightful, seamless, and useful. Some of these may or may not come to our rider experience." Ilina's statement suggests that the integration of Gemini is still in the experimental phase, with no clear timeline for its deployment.

The integration of Gemini into Waymo's robotaxis marks the latest development in the use of AI-powered chatbots in autonomous vehicles. Google's Gemini AI chatbot has been integrated into various Alphabet-owned services, including Google Assistant. The integration of Gemini into Waymo's robotaxis is seen as a significant step towards creating a more personalized and interactive experience for riders. However, the implications of this integration on the safety and security of autonomous vehicles remain unclear.

The use of AI-powered chatbots in autonomous vehicles raises important questions about the role of humans in the driving process. As autonomous vehicles become increasingly prevalent, the need for human intervention is expected to decrease. However, the integration of AI-powered chatbots like Gemini may create new opportunities for human interaction and engagement with the vehicle.

Waymo's testing of Gemini in its robotaxis is currently ongoing, with no clear timeline for its deployment. As the company continues to develop and refine its AI-powered chatbot, it is likely that we will see further developments in the use of AI in autonomous vehicles. For now, the integration of Gemini into Waymo's robotaxis remains a promising development in the field of autonomous transportation.