GM to feature Alexa in its vehicles to control the infotainment system

Modern vehicle infotainment systems are more complex than ever, with numerous features like maps, social media access as well as video streaming from different platforms, these systems are no less than a smartphone. Today, these systems use AI to integrate new features in it. Because of these ground-breaking features, navigation systems have nowadays turned out to be the unique selling point for cars.

Various automobile companies have reoriented their focus towards navigation systems and are looking to bring the latest features to their offerings and attract new customers. General Motors Co. has made a similar move by allowing its U.S. owners to download Amazon’s digital assistant software, Alexa to control media streaming, phones and navigation.

Reportedly, the feature is set to debut in 2020 and will be available in the company’s latest and 2018 vehicle models.

Moreover, the deal would significantly grow the Alexa franchise and increase its market share while giving it access to numerous vehicles. However, integrating Alexa is just one facet of Amazon’s big strategy of foraying into the transportation sector.

Sources cite that this deal is the automobile company’s new move to adopt popular technologies in its latest offerings. Previously, many automobile manufacturers, including GM tried to create an in-house infotainment technology but failed to offer an intuitive platform, which the customers demanded and instead preferred digital assistants like Google Voice, Siri or Alexa.

Speaking on the development, Santiago Chamorro, Vice President of Global Connected Services, GM said that in future, drivers will have the option to select their favorite voice concierge service.

However, the company’s shift towards Amazon and Google for interactive dashboards have worsened the situation for traditional suppliers. Meanwhile, the company also has to deal with the UAW. Recently, it announced that it was closing in on an unsettled agreement which might end the union’s strike against the automobile giants.

Sources cite that negotiators had conducted daily meeting before Sept.16 but the talks have currently intensified.

According to Terry Dittes, Vice President, UAW, the union will still negotiate the contract until GM’s Bargaining Committee is satisfied on reaching to an Agreement which addresses all the concerns of union members.

According to reports, the financials associated with the infotainment agreement with Amazon have not been unveiled yet.

Source Credit: https://in.reuters.com/article/gm-amazon/general-motors-calls-on-alexa-to-give-vehicles-more-skills-idINKBN1WA2MM