Mercedes-Benz will incorporate ChatGPT into its cars in the US to create AI-powered hand-free commands, following an agreement between the two companies.
The automaker follows General Motors in adopting generative artificial intelligence in the wake of its explosion. ChatGPT has humanlike interaction capabilities that automobile companies intend to use.
Mercedes vehicles are equipped with voice-command capabilities that enable drivers to use the phrase “Hey, Mercedes” followed by a brief command. This functionality allows users to perform various tasks such as adjusting the temperature, finding a navigation destination, or making a phone call within the vehicle. Microsoft said ChatGPT would make these voice commands more fluid and natural and could enable additional functions.
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Starting June 16, owners of MBUX-enabled models in the United States will have the opportunity to participate in a beta program that activates ChatGPT functionality. By opting into this program, the versatile language model will enhance the car’s conversational capabilities. To join the beta program, simply instruct your car by saying, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program.”
While Mercedes has an existing voice command, the integration of ChatGPT will expand the scope of the conversation. Instead of solely responding to basic commands, the Mercedes system will now have the ability to engage in more natural and conversational interactions.
With the integration of ChatGPT, the system can retain the context of previous discussions and participate in back-and-forth dialogues with the driver and passengers. This enhanced functionality enables the system to respond to a wider range of requests, even those unrelated to the car or driver. For example, drivers can inquire about a quick recipe or the ideal time to visit Colorado.
“Users will experience a voice assistant that not only accepts natural voice commands but can also conduct conversations. Soon, participants who ask the Voice Assistant for details about their destination, to suggest a new dinner recipe, or to answer a complex question, will receive a more comprehensive answer – while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road,” Microsoft said.
Additionally, Microsoft explained that the ChatGPT system can collaborate with other applications, allowing it to handle tasks such as making restaurant reservations or purchasing movie tickets. This integration expands the capabilities of the system beyond the vehicle itself.
ChatGPT is seeing gradual adoption outside the internet, where millions of people are already using it due to its ability to fulfill tasks such as writing essays, picking stocks, and writing codes with humanlike context.
Voice commands in automobiles have been touted as safer for drivers to use than buttons or touchscreens, as it limits the distraction that comes from looking away from the road. The increasing number of automakers creating voice commands in vehicles over the past decade indicates a shift from the use of buttons.
With the growing adoption of AI-based tools such as ChatGPT, voice command is likely going to significantly replace buttons and touchscreens in vehicles soon.