Google and Volkswagen Join Forces to Develop AI-Powered Smartphone Assistant for Cars

Google, Volkswagen partner on smartphone AI assistant

SAN FRANCISCO - Alphabet's Google is providing key capabilities for an artificial intelligence assistant for Volkswagen drivers in a smartphone app, part of Google's strategy to win business by offering tools to build enterprise AI applications. Consumers can ask Volkswagen's in-app assistant questions like "How do I change a flat tire?" or point their phone cameras at vehicle dashboards to receive relevant information. The AI assistant draws on Google's Gemini large language models, programs that can understand and generate predictive responses to human language, and cloud computing capacity. The VW tool was designed by adding data such as Volkswagen owner's manuals and YouTube videos on vehicle maintenance to Gemini. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian told Reuters that the product required overcoming technical hurdles to multimodality, the ability to process different data types such as text, images and videos. "The problem looks superficially simple, but it's technically very complex," Kurian said. "Most people think what we built is a speech-to-text translation system that then looks up a manual. Absolutely not." The AI assistant is free and available to about 120,000 owners of Volkswagen's Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. It will roll out by early next year to other cars from model year 2020 and later. Corporate adoption of generative AI could alter the lucrative cloud computing market, where Google places third in terms of market share behind Amazon and Microsoft. Most companies are still searching for applications that users will find practical. Cloud computing is a growing business segment for Google, accounting for $33 billion of the firm's $307 billion in overall revenue in 2023. AI solutions have driven billions in revenue this year, the company has said, though it declined to disclose more precise figures. Volkswagen declined to give details about usage for its AI assistant so far. (Reporting by Kenrick Cai in San Francisco; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)

Google, Volkswagen partner on smartphone AI assistant

Alphabet's Google is providing key capabilities for an artificial intelligence assistant for Volkswagen drivers in a smartphone app, part of Google's strategy to win business by offering tools to build enterprise AI applications. Consumers can ask Volkswagen's in-app assistant questions like "How do I change a flat tire?" or point their phone cameras at vehicle dashboards to receive relevant information. The AI assistant draws on Google's Gemini large language models, programs that can understand and generate predictive responses to human language, and cloud computing capacity. The VW tool was designed by adding data such as Volkswagen owner's manuals and YouTube videos on vehicle maintenance to Gemini. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian told Reuters that the product required overcoming technical hurdles to multimodality, the ability to process different data types such as text, images and videos. "The problem looks superficially simple, but it's technically very complex," Kurian said. "Most people think what we built is a speech-to-text translation system that then looks up a manual. Absolutely not." The AI assistant is free and available to about 120,000 owners of Volkswagen's Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. It will roll out by early next year to other cars from model year 2020 and later. Corporate adoption of generative AI could alter the lucrative cloud computing market, where Google places third in terms of market share behind Amazon and Microsoft . Most companies are still searching for applications that users will find practical. Cloud computing is a growing business segment for Google, accounting for $33 billion of the firm's $307 billion in overall revenue in 2023. AI solutions have driven billions in revenue this year, the company has said, though it declined to disclose more precise figures. Volkswagen declined to give details about usage for its AI assistant so far. (Reporting by Kenrick Cai in San Francisco; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)

Google, Volkswagen partner on smartphone AI assistant

The AI assistant draws on Google's Gemini large language models, programs that can understand and generate predictive responses to human language, and cloud computing capacity. The VW tool was designed by adding data such as Volkswagen owner's manuals and YouTube videos on vehicle maintenance to Gemini. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian told Reuters that the product required overcoming technical hurdles to multimodality, the ability to process different data types such as text, images and videos. "The problem looks superficially simple, but it's technically very complex," Kurian said. "Most people think what we built is a speech-to-text translation system that then looks up a manual. Absolutely not." The AI assistant is free and available to about 120,000 owners of Volkswagen's Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. It will roll out by early next year to other cars from model year 2020 and later. Corporate adoption of generative AI could alter the lucrative cloud computing market, where Google places third in terms of market share behind Amazon and Microsoft. Most companies are still searching for applications that users will find practical. Cloud computing is a growing business segment for Google, accounting for $33 billion of the firm's $307 billion in overall revenue in 2023. AI solutions have driven billions in revenue this year, the company has said, though it declined to disclose more precise figures. Volkswagen declined to give details about usage for its AI assistant so far. (Reporting by Kenrick Cai in San Francisco; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)

Google, Volkswagen partner on smartphone AI assistant

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept 24 - Alphabet's (GOOGL.O), opens new tab Google is providing key capabilities for an artificial intelligence assistant for Volkswagen (VOWG_p.DE), opens new tab drivers in a smartphone app, part of Google's strategy to win business by offering tools to build enterprise AI applications. Consumers can ask Volkswagen's in-app assistant questions like "How do I change a flat tire?" or point their phone cameras at vehicle dashboards to receive relevant information. Advertisement · Scroll to continue The AI assistant draws on Google's Gemini large language models, programs that can understand and generate predictive responses to human language, and cloud computing capacity. The VW tool was designed by adding data such as Volkswagen owner's manuals and YouTube videos on vehicle maintenance to Gemini. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian told Reuters that the product required overcoming technical hurdles to multimodality, the ability to process different data types such as text, images and videos. Advertisement · Scroll to continue "The problem looks superficially simple, but it's technically very complex," Kurian said. "Most people think what we built is a speech-to-text translation system that then looks up a manual. Absolutely not." The AI assistant is free and available to about 120,000 owners of Volkswagen's Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. It will roll out by early next year to other cars from model year 2020 and later. Corporate adoption of generative AI could alter the lucrative cloud computing market, where Google places third in terms of market share behind Amazon (AMZN.O), opens new tab and Microsoft (MSFT.O), opens new tab. Most companies are still searching for applications that users will find practical. Cloud computing is a growing business segment for Google, accounting for $33 billion of the firm's $307 billion in overall revenue in 2023. AI solutions have driven billions in revenue this year, the company has said, though it declined to disclose more precise figures. Volkswagen declined to give details about usage for its AI assistant so far. Reporting by Kenrick Cai in San Francisco; Editing by Cynthia Osterman Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab Kenrick Cai Thomson Reuters Kenrick Cai is a correspondent for Reuters based in San Francisco. He covers Google, its parent company Alphabet and artificial intelligence. Cai joined Reuters in 2024. He previously worked at Forbes magazine, where he was a staff writer covering venture capital and startups. He received a Best in Business award from the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing in 2023. He is a graduate of Duke University.

Google, Volkswagen partner on smartphone AI assistant

The logo of Google is seen outside Google Bay View facilities in Mountain View, California. -- Reuters file Alphabet's Google is providing key capabilities for an artificial intelligence assistant for Volkswagen drivers in a smartphone app, part of Google's strategy to win business by offering tools to build enterprise AI applications. Consumers can ask Volkswagen's in-app assistant questions like "How do I change a flat tyre?" or point their phone cameras at vehicle dashboards to receive relevant information. The AI assistant draws on Google's Gemini large language models, programs that can understand and generate predictive responses to human language, and cloud computing capacity. The VW tool was designed by adding data such as Volkswagen owner's manuals and YouTube videos on vehicle maintenance to Gemini. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian told Reuters that the product required overcoming technical hurdles to multimodality, the ability to process different data types such as text, images and videos. AI solutions have driven billions in revenue this year, the company has said, though it declined to disclose more precise figures.

Google has an AI solution for Volkswagen car owners - Times of India

Google is set to power the key capabilities for Volkswagen's new in-app artificial intelligence (AI) assistant. This assistant, designed to enhance the driving experience for Volkswagen owners will be available to customers who own a car from the brand on a smartphone. By providing key AI capabilities, Google aims to assist drivers with tasks such as providing information about their vehicles and answering questions about maintenance.This strategic move by Google reflects their larger goal of attracting businesses by offering them the tools to create their enterprise AI applications. Volkswagen app AI assistant: Availability and how it will work According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the AI assistant is free and will be available to about 1,20,000 owners of Volkswagen's Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. The tool is also expected to arrive for models that were launched in 2020 or later by early next year. Volkswagen's AI assistant will use Google's advanced Gemini large language models, which are capable of understanding and responding to natural language queries. Additionally, the assistant will utilise Google's cloud computing power to provide quick and efficient responses. To customize the experience for Volkswagen owners, data from sources such as owner's manuals and relevant YouTube videos have been integrated into the Gemini models, the report notes. As per the report, car owners may be able to ask Volkswagen's in-app assistant questions like "How do I change a flat tire?" or point their phone cameras at vehicle dashboards to receive relevant information. However, Volkswagen has yet to share any details about the usage of its AI assistant so far, the report said. What Google said about Volkswagen's AI assistant In a statement to Reuters, Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian said that for this product, the company had to address complex technical challenges in achieving multimodality, the ability to handle and interpret various data formats, including text, images, and videos. "The problem looks superficially simple, but it's technically very complex. Most people think what we built is a speech-to-text translation system that then looks up a manual. Absolutely not," Kurian said. The TOI Tech Desk is a dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant news from the world of technology to readers of The Times of India. TOI Tech Desk's news coverage spans a wide spectrum across gadget launches, gadget reviews, trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact technology and the digital universe. Be it how-tos or the latest happenings in AI, cybersecurity, personal gadgets, platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and more; TOI Tech Desk brings the news with accuracy and authenticity.

Google And Volkswagen Team Up To Launch AI Assistant That Can Even Change A Flat Tire - Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG), Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL)

Google's parent Alphabet Inc. GOOGLGOOG and Volkswagen AG VWAGY are joining forces to launch an AI assistant for drivers, leveraging Google's advanced technology. What Happened: Alphabet is teaming up with Volkswagen to introduce an AI assistant for drivers, Reuters reported on Tuesday. The AI assistant, integrated into a smartphone app, will help Volkswagen drivers with tasks such as changing a flat tire or understanding dashboard indicators. It utilizes Google's Gemini large language models and cloud computing capabilities. Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian highlighted the technical challenges overcome to achieve multimodality, which allows the AI to process text, images, and videos. Kurian stated, "Most people think what we built is a speech-to-text translation system that then looks up a manual. Absolutely not." The AI assistant is currently free for approximately 120,000 owners of Volkswagen's Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models. It will expand to other Volkswagen models from 2020 onwards by early next year. See Also: Elon Musk Responds As California Congressman Slams Bureaucratic Roadblocks For SpaceX Program: 'Agencies Need To Prioritize Enabling Launches And Not Standing In Their Way' Corporate adoption of generative AI could significantly impact the cloud computing market, where Google ranks third behind Amazon.com and Microsoft Corp. Google's cloud segment generated $33 billion in revenue in 2023, contributing to its overall $307 billion revenue. Why It Matters: This collaboration marks another significant step for Volkswagen in integrating advanced AI technologies into their vehicles. Earlier this year, Volkswagen announced the integration of OpenAI's ChatGPT into its new-generation infotainment systems, including models in the all-electric ID family. This integration allows drivers to use AI for various tasks, enhancing the overall driving experience. However, this partnership comes at a crucial time for Volkswagen. The company is facing significant challenges, including potential plant closures due to underutilization and increased competition from Chinese automakers. According to a recent report, Volkswagen's crisis is a reflection of the broader struggles within Europe's automotive industry. The industry is grappling with global competition and a declining market share. Read Next: Elon Musk Shares It Takes 'Multiple Fish Licenses' To Launch A Rocket: 'I Don't Think The Public Is Quite Aware Of The Madness That Goes On,' Says SpaceX CEO Photo by Gyuszko-Photo on Shutterstock This story was generated using Benzinga Neuro and edited by Pooja Rajkumari Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs

Volkswagen Begins Rollout of GenAI-Powered Virtual Assistant for Vehicle Owners | PYMNTS.com

The myVW Virtual Assistant is now available to owners of model year 2024 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles and will be expanded to most model year 2020 and new Volkswagen vehicles in 2025, the automaker said in a Tuesday (Sept. 24) press release. The virtual assistant provides vehicles owners with access to information specific to their vehicles, answering questions about things like the way to change a flat tire and the meaning of an indicator light, according to the release. Vehicle owners can also get information about indicator lights by pointing their smartphone cameras at them, per the release. "AI is emerging as a utility tool for Volkwagen owners to better understand their vehicles and get answers to questions faster and easier," Abdallah Shanti, chief information officer at Volkswagen Group of America, said in the release. "Thanks to our strong collaboration with Google Cloud, we're able to bring valuable technology into our vehicles that help us successfully connect to the car and our customers." To build the myVW Virtual Assistant, Volkswagen used Google Cloud's Vertex AI and BigQuery to ground and fine-tune Gemini models on multiple data sources and leveraged Google Cloud Consulting to help design and deploy the app, according to the release. To train the virtual assistant, the automaker used vehicle owner's manuals, customer's frequently asked questions, help center articles, official Volkswagen YouTube videos and step-by-step guides, per the release. "Volkswagen is setting a new standard for driver experiences by bringing the power of advanced generative AI directly to its customers," Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said in the release. This news comes on the same day that Google announced that more than 2 million developers are building with its generative AI solutions. Ahead of the global virtual event Gemini at Work, which is being held Tuesday, the company said Gemini is being put to work by companies in a variety of ways. "We're inspired by what customers are building and excited how quickly they've been able to move ideas from experimentation into production with our Vertex AI platform," Kurian said in a Tuesday blog post.