TL;DR:
- Hyundai collaborates with Naver to develop a cutting-edge Large Language Model (LLM) for in-car AI systems.
- The vision is to overcome current LLM limitations by integrating Naver’s chatbot, Mapbox’s MapGPT, and Hyundai’s voice assistant for a seamless user experience.
- By 2026, Hyundai plans to launch a voice-controlled infotainment platform with integration of third-party apps.
- Hyundai leverages Naver’s research expertise in LLMs for this venture.
- An app marketplace, open to third-party developers, will complement the infotainment system with a focus on integration with vehicle functions.
Main AI News:
Hyundai Motor Group, in a strategic partnership with Naver, often dubbed “the Google of South Korea,” is set to revolutionize the automotive industry with a pioneering Large Language Model (LLM) for their forthcoming vehicles’ infotainment systems and AI voice assistants. In an exclusive interview with TechRadar, Chang-Hyeon Song, President and Head of the New Transportation-as-a-Service (TaaS) Division at Hyundai, shared insights into this groundbreaking collaboration and outlined the vision for future Hyundai models.
Vision: Pushing the Boundaries of Current LLMs
Chang-Hyeon Song acknowledged the limitations of current LLMs, emphasizing their lack of access to vital data such as vehicle information, phone contacts, and driver details. These constraints hinder their capacity to provide comprehensive responses. To address this, Song envisions a hybrid system that seamlessly integrates Naver’s AI chatbot for general inquiries, Mapbox’s MapGPT for navigation-related queries, and Hyundai’s proprietary voice assistant for vehicle-specific functions. This holistic approach aims to deliver an unparalleled user experience, setting a new standard in in-car AI.
Release Timeframe: Transforming Infotainment by 2026
Hyundai’s ambitious plan is to unveil a cutting-edge infotainment platform by 2026, enabling drivers to effortlessly control in-car systems such as climate control, windows, and music using voice commands. Furthermore, this platform will seamlessly integrate popular third-party apps like OpenTable and TripAdvisor, creating an ecosystem reminiscent of CarPlay. The vision is to consolidate all functions and interactions within one ecosystem, facilitated by a unified voice assistant, simplifying the driving experience.
Why Hyundai Chooses Naver’s Expertise
Song’s unique background, having previously worked at tech giants Apple and Microsoft, combined with his role as the founder of Naver Labs, the research and development (R&D) arm of Naver, sheds light on Hyundai’s choice to tap into Naver’s vast expertise in LLMs. Leveraging the extensive research conducted by this prominent Korean web search engine and global ICT leader promises to drive Hyundai’s innovation in in-car AI to new heights.
Insights: The Future of Hyundai’s App Marketplace
In addition to the groundbreaking infotainment system, Hyundai has ambitious plans to introduce an app marketplace for its customers. The company is opening its Application Programming Interface (API) to third-party developers, inviting them to enhance existing features using Hyundai’s resources. This move sets Hyundai apart from other Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) by fostering an open and collaborative ecosystem. Initially, the focus of the app marketplace will be on tight integration with the vehicle’s functions, prioritizing seamless user experiences over overwhelming feature offerings.
Conclusion:
Hyundai’s partnership with Naver and its visionary approach to in-car AI systems and infotainment platforms promises to reshape the driving experience as we know it. By 2026, Hyundai aims to provide drivers with an intuitive, voice-controlled ecosystem that seamlessly integrates navigation, information, entertainment, and third-party apps, all while maintaining an open and collaborative ethos with third-party developers. The future of in-car technology has never looked more promising.
