In this day and age of artificial intelligence, many companies are slowly but surely integrating generative AIs into their services, but ChatGPT in cars isn’t something many people would have in mind. However, Mercedes-Benz is doing exactly that, as the company has recently unveiled its collaboration with ChatGPT to enhance its MBUX Voice Assistant, which would allow users to engage in various conversations in a human-like manner.
Launched as part of a beta program, the new voice assistant will be available to over 900,000 vehicles in the United States equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system. Additionally, users can enrol in the program by simply saying, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program,” starting from June 16.
Unlocking new capabilities
Although the integration of ChatGPT in cars may seem unusual, it is a logical step forward for Mercedes to upgrade its voice assistant using an AI language model. This is because, instead of relying on specific phrases to activate functions, drivers can now engage in a dialogue format that mimics human conversation, ensuring a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.
“Whether users need information about their destination, a recipe, or answers to complex questions, the enhanced voice assistant will provide comprehensive responses, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road,” reads Microsoft’s blog post.
A demonstration video by Electrek showcased how the MBUX utilized both the dashboard screen and onboard voice to provide informative responses. For instance, when a user asked the AI about the best beaches in town, it displayed a list of nearby beaches and recommended activities like surfing.
Addressing data privacy concerns
While the integration of ChatGPT into Mercedes cars unlocks new possibilities, industry experts have raised concerns about data privacy. However, Mercedes has addressed these concerns by explaining their collaboration with Microsoft, which ensures that the conversation data is securely stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. Moreover, the company also emphasizes that they retain full control over all IT processes, ensuring the protection of customer data from misuse and data breaches.