Renault’s with R-Link Get a Significant Over-the-Air Update
OpenR link with Google built-in is a connected multimedia system and one of the best on the market, which also receives updates since it launched in 2022 on the Megane E-Tech.
OenR covers apps such as HBO Max, Amazon Music, Waze, SongPop for Renault, Canal+, and more, but more importantly it came with native Google Maps including features for electric cars, such as suggested charging stops, much like a Tesla.
However, in their latest update, Google’s AI Assistant, Gemini, will be rolled out in a phased approach for all Renault models fitted with openR link.
The update is available across the entire European range, from Twingo to Rafale, as well plus international models such as Boreal or Duster in India.
Gemini has already started to roll-out from 15 June in all the countries where Renault is present and the first users are invited to opt-in to Gemini for free directly from the central display, provided they are signed in to a Google Account.
The phased roll-out is based on:
Over-the-air updates, meaning that it uses the native connectivity of Renault vehicles and does not require a visit to the garage
An “opt-in” function allowing customers to choose whether or not to enable Gemini
A gradual roll-out across all compatible vehicles, in line with the thirteen languages available and the version of openR link
The new enhanced openR link features are available at no extra cost to customers logging on with a Google Account with the option to enable Gemini. It’s not mandatory and customers can return to the standard Google Assistant at any time.
Gemini AI assistant
Renault says that “Gemini represents a major leap forwards in onboard voice assistants”. The new technology is able to:
Understand the context of a conversation and the intentions of users
Handle requests of greater complexity
Engage in natural, continuous conversations
Customers can simply use a natural language when interacting with Gemini rather than using forced, specific voice commands.
There’s also a “Gemini Live” feature that can be enabled for advanced conversational interaction, but this will come later enabling customers to:
Engage in natural free-flowing conversations
Interrupt the assistant at any time
Make several requests in a row without repeating the phrase “Hey Google”
Switch languages during a conversation
Full integration with the vehicle and the Google ecosystem
There are some embedded functions that has been integrated into Gemini on openR link, such as controlling air conditioning, navigation, radio, settings, and more. It can also use the vehicle data - such as EV range - for route planning.
Interactions with the vehicle can also be accessed on other devices linked to the same Google Account, for a seamless experience, such as mobile phones and tablets.
What Value Does it Add?
By enabling natural language, and complex voice-controlled tasks it reduces the need for the driver to be distracted with the central touchscreen whilst driving. Gemini will:
minimise driver distraction, maintaining a focus on the road
simplify access to vehicle functions
improve everyday comfort and convenience
Gemini can respond to real-life situations carrying out several tasks in a row without further interaction. Renault provides as example below:
Intelligent, context-aware navigation
“Hey Google, take me to Paris but avoid the ring road”
→ Gemini analyses the context and suggests an appropriate solutionVoice-controlled vehicle functions (radio, heated seats, etc.)
“It’s cold in here, turn up the heating”
→ The system automatically adjusts the temperatureAccess to information, general knowledge and content while on the road (in “Gemini Live” mode):
“Hey Google. It’s very hot today. What’s the best way to cut fuel consumption: opening the windows or turning on the aircon?”
“Tell my 8-year-old son a story about cars and dinosaurs”
“Create a quiz on the history of Paris for adults and teenagers”
“What are the results of yesterday’s football world cup matches?"
→ The system is able to answer open-ended questions as well as requests for general information, media articles and news
Conclusion
Gemini will support thirteen languages at launch rolling out the upgraded OpenR in a phased approach to all users in the following languages: English, French, German, Swedish, Dutch, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Danish, Norwegian and Turkish. Other languages will be available at a later date.
Further upgrades are planned in the term and will be deployed via over-the-air updates allowing for the car to improve over time with new features, better language skills and more capabilities.
This is undoubtedly a great feature for Renault that ensures they are one of the few manufacturers on the market that can continuously update the cars for their owners, which could attract more customers to the brand.
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About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb