Mercedes-Benz Takes ChatGPT For A Spin In New Infotainment System Update

Mercedes-Benz and ChatGPT are strapping into a new partnership to put OpenAI’s famed chatbot, ChatGPT, out on the open road.
 
Infotainment systems are becoming more than beefed-up stereo systems and advanced GPS navigators. Mercedes-Benz, in particular, has evolved the cabins of cars into a lounge on the road, offering everything from TikTok to Zoom to Angry Birds. And with chatbots on the rise, it was only a matter of time before they found their way into vehicles.
 

Mercedes-Benz is now the latest company to jump onto the AI bandwagon by enlisting Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service as part of its ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistance system.
 
Previously, the feature could handle simple tasks like setting the navigation system to wherever drivers were headed, or changing the lighting in the cabin to an ambient setting. With ChatGPT embedded, owners can now have a natural conversation with their cars—perfect for when the radio isn’t playing anything good, but you’re also not looking to sit alone with your thoughts for the drive home.
 
There might be some safety concerns from having full-blown conversations with the car while driving, but it’s not any different from talking on the onboard phone to someone else, and if you do get the urge to search for something mid-drive, your Merc can now do it for you.
 
That said, it might be best to avoid asking about that rash you’re having, as all conversations will be recorded, stored, and analyzed—albeit anonymously. 
 
A three-month trial is starting this month and will come to select cars in the US. The German marque is still considering a broader and more permanent rollout.
 
 
 
[via Engadget and Insider, cover image via Mercedes-Benz]