So, you want ChatGPT in your Mercedes? Well, all you have to do is ask.
ChatGPT is a natural language processing tool driven by AI technology and it is awfully popular, in case you haven't noticed.
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A study early this year by UBS found that chatbot from OpenAI , a private company backed by Microsoft (MSFT), reached an estimated 100 million monthly active users in January, just two months after launch, according to Reuters.
"In 20 years following the internet space, we cannot recall a faster ramp in a consumer internet app," UBS analysts said in February.
Meanwhile, it took TikTok about nine months after its global launch to reach 100 million users and Instagram 2-1/2 years, according to data from Sensor Tower.
Over-the-Air Rollout
Now Mercedes Benz Group (DDAIF) is putting the technology on wheels. The German automaker said on June 16 that is beta-testing ChatGPT in over 900,000 vehicles in the U.S. equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system.
Drivers can participate via the Mercedes me app or directly from the vehicle using the voice command, "Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program."
The rollout will happen over-the-air as Mercedes integrates ChatGPT through Azure OpenAI Service.
Mercedes said the voice assistant not only accepts natural voice commands but can also conduct 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 said in a statement.
The program is expected to last three months and Mercedes said that findings 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.
Eric Boyd, corporate vice president of Microsoft’s AI platform said in a blog post Mercedes "is exploring the ChatGPT plugin ecosystem, which would open up possibilities for integration with various third-party services.”
Protecting Vital Data
“This could enable drivers to accomplish tasks like restaurant reservations, movie ticket bookings, and more, using natural speech commands, further enhancing convenience and productivity on the road,” he said.
As far as data protection, Mercedes said that customers always know what information is collected and for what purpose, and they are free to make their own decisions.
The voice command data collected is stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud.
Earlier this month, the California Department of Motor Vehicles approved Mercedes-Benz to sell or lease self-driving cars to the public.
Similar to Tesla's Autopilot, Mercedes' Drive Pilot allows for hands-free driving.
But it goes a bit beyond simply hands-free, allowing the driver to turn away from the road in something that is essentially eyes-free. Drivers do, however, have to be prepared to take control if necessary.
The carmaker revealed at a North American dealer event last month that in 2024 it plans to deliver its new all-electric, compact CLA sedan that will compete with Tesla's Model 3 and an electric GLC crossover, which it hopes will cut into the Tesla Model Y market.
