The influence of AI has made a profound impact on the internet, and now it’s gearing up to transform how we approach driving.
TomTom, a prominent player in car navigation, has teamed up with Microsoft to create an AI-powered driving assistant. This futuristic driving companion will be driven by Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service, a cutting-edge technology unveiled earlier this year.
In a recent press release, TomTom stated, “Drivers will soon be able to interact with their vehicles naturally, engaging in conversations to instruct the AI assistant to plan routes, locate waypoints, and verbally manage various onboard systems. This includes adjusting the temperature, opening windows, or changing radio stations, all with a single interaction.”
Mike Schoofs, the Chief Revenue Officer at TomTom, highlighted the partnership with Microsoft, emphasizing, “Our goal is to introduce pioneering solutions by harnessing generative AI. Leveraging our navigation and technological expertise, we are redefining how individuals engage with their vehicles. By merging the strengths of both companies into one cohesive solution, we are revolutionizing the in-vehicle experience, empowering drivers to confidently request and receive services from their cars.”
Although integrating an AI voice assistant into cars isn’t entirely new in the automotive industry—Mercedes recently introduced a beta program integrating ChatGPT into their MBUX voice control system, also supported by Microsoft—TomTom’s endeavor stands out due to its utilization of generative AI, setting it apart from voice assistants like Alexa, Apple AirPlay, Android Auto, and Siri, which do not make use of this advanced technology.
While specific details about the release of this new voice assistant to the public are not outlined in TomTom’s statement, the company plans to showcase the conversational AI at CES in Las Vegas, hinting at a swift time-to-market approach as they connect with global OEMs and other interested parties.
Topics
Artificial Intelligence
Cars
Sam Haysom is the Deputy UK Editor for Mashable. He covers entertainment and online culture and writes horror fiction in his spare time.
