Mercedes-Benz is partnering with Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service to integrate ChatGPT, the popular natural-language model, into its in-car voice assistant. This move aims to enhance the functionality of Mercedes’ voice assistant, known as “Hey Mercedes,” by enabling it to engage in natural conversations and answer contextual follow-up questions. Initially, the integration will be available to US customers in select vehicles through a three-month beta program. Mercedes is also exploring the possibility of incorporating ChatGPT plugins for tasks like restaurant reservations and movie ticket bookings using natural language.
By integrating ChatGPT, Mercedes is taking its voice assistant to the next level, allowing users to interact with it in a more conversational and flexible manner. While holding extensive conversations while driving could potentially lead to distracted driving, the fact that the interaction is voice-based may mitigate some concerns. Additionally, having a voice assistant that can provide information and answer questions may reduce the temptation for drivers to use their phones while behind the wheel.
Mercedes and Microsoft emphasize the security and privacy aspects of the integration, relying on Azure’s enterprise-grade security measures to protect user data. Conversations will be stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where they will be anonymized and analyzed. However, it is important for users to be mindful of the potential for their recorded conversations to be used for training and data analysis purposes, and to avoid sharing any sensitive or personally identifiable information.
The three-month beta program is set to commence on June 16th and will be available exclusively for select Mercedes models equipped with the MBUX infotainment system. Interested users can join the program by instructing their car’s built-in voice assistant, saying, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program.”
While the initial beta program is limited in scope, Mercedes-Benz plans to evaluate its success and potentially expand the integration of ChatGPT into its broader lineup of vehicles in the future. This collaboration highlights the automaker’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to enhance the in-car experience and provide innovative features to its customers.
