Mercedes-Benz has introduced an enhanced voice assistant feature for its cars, powered by an upgrade of ChatGPT. Owners of Mercedes vehicles equipped with the MBUX infotainment system can now engage in conversations with their cars while driving. The beta version of the ChatGPT-powered update is available for sign-up starting June 16th.
Mercedes-Benz ChatGPT Features
Mercedes-Benz has made the software accessible to over 900,000 vehicles in the US, allowing customers to download it through the Mercedes Me app or by using the voice command “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program.” The rollout will be conducted through Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service via over-the-air updates, with data privacy and IT processes being managed by Mercedes-Benz.
Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer of Mercedes-Benz, emphasized the company’s commitment to safeguarding customer data privacy, stating, “Our customers can always rely on us to ensure the best possible protection of their data privacy.”
The MBUX Voice Assistant from Mercedes-Benz has already established itself as an industry benchmark, but the integration of ChatGPT will make it even more user-friendly and intuitive. In addition to accepting voice commands, the voice assistant is now capable of engaging in conversations. This means that drivers and passengers can discuss various aspects such as destination details or dinner plans with their car, receiving more comprehensive and informative responses compared to previous versions.
Schäfer explained that the beta program enhances the existing functions of Hey Mercedes, such as navigation queries and weather requests, by incorporating the capabilities of ChatGPT. The aim is to facilitate natural dialogues and accommodate follow-up questions in conversations with the voice assistant.
The US-focused beta program is expected to run for three months, during which feedback and insights will be collected to further refine the voice assistant and determine the rollout strategy for other markets and languages, according to Mercedes-Benz.
