On your next Tesla trip, a new artificial co-pilot could accompany you. The automaker is preparing to launch its own voice assistant to handle hands-free commands and controls in its electric vehicles, according to code found in the latest software update.
For years, CEO Elon Musk has discussed the possibility of integrating a voice-activated virtual assistant into Tesla’s cabin to minimize manual intervention and allow drivers to keep their hands on the wheel. It seems like the foundations of such a virtual assistant are finally laid.
Details are still scarce, but famous Tesla hacker “Green” discovered references to a “Tesla voice assistant” that would be activated by a wake word in version 2023.14.3 of the automaker’s software. The system would be codenamed “Jenny” and would use neutral voice models licensed from Microsoft.
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What could Tesla’s voice assistant be used for?
If implemented as Musk previously indicated, internal voice AI could eventually allow Tesla owners to use almost all of the vehicle’s functions by simply speaking commands in natural language. This ranges from adjusting the air conditioning to opening the glove box, entering navigation destinations and activating parking assistance, all without lifting a finger from the steering wheel.
The idea is to create an intuitive, voice-driven experience only that eliminates the need to manually fumble through menus or touchscreens while driving. Tesla’s existing voice commands are quite rudimentary compared to smart assistants from Apple, Amazon and Google.
Musk has previously suggested that Tesla could collaborate with his AI research startup xAI to build custom conversational AI models for its vehicles. The billionaire has been a vocal critic of voice assistants such as Siri, saying more advanced natural language processing is needed.
Of course, Tesla frequently tests potential features that are never officially presented. But the introduction of a clean voice assistant fits into Musk’s public vision of vehicles that can truly operate hands-free without the need for manual controls beyond basic steering. We imagine thatsuch an assistant should therefore quickly arrive in a future update. We will obviously keep you informed.
Source: Green