Microsoft and Mercedes-Benz have agreed to include ChatGPT in Mercedes-Benz automobiles sold in the United States. Microsoft’s “generative artificial intelligence” software, ChatGPT, can have conversations that are as close to human conversation as possible.
Drivers can use the phrase “Hey, Mercedes” followed by a short command to adjust the temperature inside the vehicle, locate a navigation destination, or place a phone call in Mercedes vehicles already equipped with voice-command capabilities. According to Microsoft, ChatGPT could enable additional functions and make these voice commands more natural and fluid.
The system could have a conversation that looks more like it comes from a real person, rather than just responding to simple commands. The system will be able to recall the context of the conversation and have back-and-forth conversations with the driver or other passengers in the vehicle. The system will be able to respond to a wider range of requests with ChatGPT, including those that may not pertain to the vehicle or the driver. For instance, drivers might inquire about the best time of year to visit Colorado or a quick recipe.
According to Microsoft (MSFT), the ChatGPT system can also work with other applications to handle things like booking reservations at restaurants or buying movie tickets.
Beginning on June 16, Mercedes owners in the United States who have the MBUX “infortainment” system will be able to use the voice command “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program” to try out the ChatGPT system.
On the internet, ChatGPT has been used to do things like research, write essays, pick stocks, and occasionally respond in an unhelpful way to people who are going through a difficult time.
Mercedes is one of many automakers that has developed increasingly sophisticated voice command systems for their vehicles over the course of the past decade or so. Because they don’t require drivers to look away from the road when using them, they are touted as being safer for drivers to use than buttons or touchscreens. Although some research has shown that using voice commands still requires mental processing, it is still distracting.