Mercedes-Benz has joined forces with Microsoft to integrate ChatGPT, an advanced AI language model, into their vehicles. The luxury and commercial vehicle brand aims to enhance the voice control capabilities of their vehicles by incorporating ChatGPT, which is powered by Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service.
The new voice assistant, known as Hey Mercedes (officially referred to as the MBUX Voice Assistant), has already been installed in over 900,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles, marking a significant step forward in AI-driven infotainment systems. Mercedes-Benz is the first automaker to adopt ChatGPT, although other competitors in the industry have expressed their interest in leveraging AI technology in their own vehicles.
To experience the enhanced features of the new voice assistant, Mercedes-Benz owners simply need to opt in and try it out. The integration of ChatGPT allows users to not only issue natural voice commands but also engage in full conversations with the voice assistant. In the near future, users can expect a more comprehensive response from Hey Mercedes, whether they are inquiring about their destination, seeking a dinner recipe, or asking complex questions, all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
This test period, which is set to span three months, will enable Mercedes-Benz to gather vital data and explore new possibilities offered by AI technology. However, the company remains cautious in deploying this new functionality and emphasizes the importance of safety and responsible AI usage.
Markus Schäfer, the Chief Technology Officer at Mercedes-Benz, stated, Our beta program enhances existing Hey Mercedes functions, such as navigation queries and weather requests, using the capabilities of ChatGPT. We have taken great care to ensure that our approach to ChatGPT aligns with our AI principles, making innovative AI solutions accessible and safe for customers. We are committed to closely monitoring potential risks and continuously improving the system for the benefit of every customer. Responsible utilization of generative AI solutions is of utmost importance to Mercedes-Benz.
Furthermore, all data collected by Hey Mercedes will be stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where it can be anonymized before being analyzed for insights. Schäfer affirms that driver safety and data protection are the company’s top priorities. The integration of ChatGPT with Microsoft’s controlled cloud environment represents a significant milestone towards making Mercedes-Benz vehicles the hub of customers’ digital lives. Hey Mercedes allows for natural dialogues and follow-up questions, redefining the relationship between customers and their vehicles.
With this collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft, users can now enjoy enhanced voice control capabilities and more interactive conversations with their vehicles. As the automotive industry continues to embrace AI technology, Mercedes-Benz remains at the forefront, ensuring that innovation is accessible, safe, and customer-oriented.
