General Motors (GM) is reportedly in the process of developing a virtual personal assistant for cars based on the same machine-learning models that power ChatGPT, the digital assistant prototype released by Microsoft-backed research lab OpenAI. According to a report by Semafor, GM’s chatbot will be voice-activated and powered by Microsoft’s Azure cloud service, which owns the OpenAI technology that powers ChatGPT.
Unlike other AI chatbots like Bing Chat and ChatGPT, the version in GM cars will behave differently as the automaker is working on adding another, more car-specific layer on top of the OpenAI models known for answering any question, often with unpredictable results. As per Scott Miller, the vice president of GM’s Software Defined Vehicle and Operating System division, the chatbot might even help drivers learn handy tasks, like changing a flat tire.
The development of the AI assistant comes at a time when major automakers, including GM, are making substantial investments in autonomous vehicles and connected car technologies. As per the report, the chatbot will also feature a display that may show instructional videos on how to perform specific tasks like changing a tire.
GM’s AI assistant may also have other features that would cater to drivers’ needs while on the road. However, the company has yet to release any official statement about the development.
Meanwhile, the Detroit-based automaker has laid off hundreds of workers from the company as part of its efforts to cut costs and boost profits. The cuts affected approximately 500 positions across the company’s various functions, as per CNBC.
