Mercedes-Benz is integrating OpenAI's ChatGPT into its vehicles.
The AI chatbot is coming to vehicles equipped with the car maker's MBUX infotainment system via a beta program for US users.
MBUX vehicles already feature a voice assistant that can respond to various commands, such as making a phone call or displaying map directions. However, Mercedes says the ChatGPT integration promises to make the voice assistant even smarter.
“While most voice assistants are limited to predefined tasks and responses, ChatGPT leverages a large language model to greatly improve natural language understanding and expand the topics to which it can respond,” Mercedes said in the announcement.
The upgrade should produce more natural dialogue while speaking with the MBUX voice assistant. This can include better answers to everyday topics and the ability to respond to follow-up questions and hold two-way 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,” the company added.
Mercedes tapped Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI service to add the ChatGPT functionality. The car maker also designed the function with privacy in mind when the chatbot has gained notoriety for using personal and sensitive details from users to train itself. But don’t be surprised if you’re interactions with ChatGPT are used to improve the technology.
“Mercedes-Benz retains complete control over the IT processes in the background,” the car maker said. “The voice command data collected is stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where it is anonymized and analyzed.”
That said, Mercedes says “customers know at all times what information is collected and for what purpose, and they are free to make their own decisions.” The company also promises to protect the customer data from manipulation and misuse.
The beta program is scheduled to last for about three months for enrolled users. The ChatGPT integration can be accessed by using the existing voice prompt “Hey, Mercedes.”
“Findings from the beta program will be used to further improve the intuitive voice assistant and to define the rollout strategy for large language models in more markets and languages,” Mercedes added.
Others, like General Motors, are also reportedly exploring bringing ChatGPT to their cars.
