Volvo Announces Major Android Automotive Software Update

Volvo says it will roll out a major Android Automotive update for cars from 2020, introducing a new interface and Google Gemini via over-the-air updates.

Volvo is preparing one of the most extensive software updates in its history. In the second half of 2026, the company will begin remotely updating the infotainment systems of all Volvo vehicles equipped with Android Automotive that were produced from 2020 onward. The update will be delivered over the air and will not require a dealer visit, which is particularly important for owners in remote regions.

The core of the update is the transition to the new Volvo Car UX. This is the same user interface already found in the EX30, EX90, and the recently unveiled EX60. It introduces redesigned menu logic, more modern graphics, and simplified navigation. Volvo notes that visual elements and functions will be adapted to match the screen sizes and computing capabilities of earlier vehicles.

At the same time, Volvo will replace the existing Google Assistant with the more advanced Google Gemini system. The new AI-powered voice assistant is designed to handle more natural conversations and more complex requests. According to Volvo, Gemini will assist with searching the owner’s manual, working with navigation, translating text, and helping to compose messages.

Volvo engineers say the primary goal of the update is to reduce cognitive load on the driver. By relying more heavily on voice interaction, many tasks can be completed without navigating through complex menus or screens. The company openly acknowledges that hardware limitations in older cars may affect certain interface details, but emphasizes that core functionality will remain intact.

The OTA package is currently undergoing final validation. Volvo’s Chief Technology Officer, Anders Bell, has described it as one of the largest updates in the brand’s history. Rather than offering incremental patches, Volvo is effectively delivering a full digital upgrade that brings older vehicles closer to the experience of new models. As software continues to play an increasingly central role in modern cars, this strategy could have a meaningful impact on residual values and long-term owner loyalty.