Mercedes-Benz is once again at the forefront of technological innovation in the automotive industry. The renowned automaker has announced the integration of ChatGPT, a state-of-the-art language model developed by OpenAI, into its MBUX infotainment system. This integration will enhance the voice control capabilities of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, making interactions with the MBUX Voice Assistant even more intuitive and conversational.
Starting June 16, 2023, Mercedes-Benz is launching an optional beta program for U.S. customers who own one of the over 900,000 vehicles equipped with the MBUX system. This program allows participants to experience the advanced features of ChatGPT and provide valuable feedback to Mercedes-Benz developers. Customers can join the beta program through the Mercedes me app or directly from their vehicle using the voice command “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program.”
The integration of ChatGPT into Mercedes-Benz vehicles is made possible through Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, leveraging the enterprise-grade capabilities of Microsoft’s cloud and AI platform. This collaboration enables Mercedes-Benz to tap into the power of OpenAI’s large-scale generative AI models while benefiting from Azure’s security, privacy, and reliability features. Mercedes-Benz retains full control over the IT processes, ensuring the protection of customer data privacy.
The MBUX Voice Assistant has already set industry standards with its intuitive operation and extensive command portfolio. With the addition of ChatGPT, the voice assistant can now go beyond predefined tasks and responses. ChatGPT’s advanced natural language understanding capabilities allow the assistant to engage in more comprehensive and contextually aware conversations with users. Whether it’s providing details about a destination, suggesting a new dinner recipe, or answering complex questions, the voice assistant offers a more personalized and interactive experience, all while keeping drivers’ focus on the road.
Data privacy is a top priority for Mercedes-Benz. The voice command data collected during interactions with the MBUX Voice Assistant is securely stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where it is anonymized and analyzed. Customers have full transparency about the data collected and its purpose, ensuring they can make informed decisions. Mercedes-Benz remains committed to protecting customer data from manipulation and misuse.
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, sees the integration of ChatGPT as a milestone in the company’s mission to redefine the relationship between customers and their Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Schäfer highlights the goal of supporting natural dialogues and follow-up questions through the capabilities of ChatGPT, while assuring customers of the utmost data privacy.
The U.S.-focused beta program is expected to run for three months, during which Mercedes-Benz developers will gather insights and prioritize future developments based on user feedback. These insights will contribute to further improving the intuitive voice assistant and shaping the rollout strategy for large language models in more markets and languages.
The integration of ChatGPT into the MBUX system aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s AI principles, emphasizing a responsible approach to the use of generative AI solutions. The company acknowledges potential risks and continuously works towards mitigating them for the benefit of its customers. By combining innovation and a commitment to customer well-being, Mercedes-Benz sets a new standard for voice control in the automotive industry.
Mercedes-Benz once again proves its dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology that enhances the driving experience and puts customers at the center of their digital lives. With the integration of ChatGPT, Mercedes-Benz vehicles become more than just means of transportation—they become intelligent companions that offer personalized and engaging interactions through advanced voice control.
