Mercedes-Benz is taking in-car voice assistants to the next level with the integration of ChatGPT, powered by Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service. In a three-month beta program exclusive to select US customers and vehicles, Mercedes aims to enhance its voice assistant capabilities and explore the potential for broader integration in the future.
The Power of Mercedes ChatGPT Integration
With ChatGPT, Mercedes’ “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant can engage in natural conversations and go beyond basic commands. It can discuss a wide range of topics and even ask follow-up questions, offering a more interactive and human-like experience. Mercedes is also considering ChatGPT plugins to enable tasks such as making reservations or booking movie tickets using natural language.
Balancing Safety and Convenience
While the idea of holding lengthy conversations while driving may raise concerns about distracted driving, Mercedes-Benz has taken measures to prioritize safety. By ensuring that the interaction with ChatGPT is voice-only, the automaker aims to minimize the risk associated with diverted attention. Instead of reaching for their smartphones to find information, drivers can rely on the voice assistant to provide answers, reducing the temptation for potentially dangerous activities behind the wheel.
Security and Privacy Considerations
Mercedes and Microsoft emphasize the use of Azure’s enterprise-grade security, privacy, and reliability to safeguard user data. However, it is important to note that conversations will be stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud for anonymized analysis and training purposes. Users should exercise caution and avoid sharing private or personally identifiable information during these interactions.
The Beta Program: A Glimpse into the Future
The three-month beta program will commence on June 16th and is limited to Mercedes models equipped with the MBUX infotainment system. You can have a look at the list of eligible vehicles in Mercedes’s media page.
Interested users can join the program by instructing the car’s built-in voice assistant, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program.”
This exciting collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft opens up new possibilities for advanced voice assistants in the automotive industry. Stay tuned for further developments and enhancements in the future.
