TomTom and Microsoft Join: Digital mapping specialist TomTom has announced a groundbreaking partnership with tech giant Microsoft to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered conversational assistant for vehicles. This innovative assistant will empower users to engage in natural conversations with their vehicles, facilitating voice interactions across infotainment, location search, and vehicle command systems.
Competing with industry giants like Google Maps and HERE, TomTom leveraged Microsoft services such as Azure OpenAI Service to bring this voice assistant to life. The Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service provides enterprises access to ChatGPT, the large language models developed by OpenAI, enabling advanced language understanding and generation capabilities.
The voice assistant is designed to seamlessly integrate into various automotive infotainment systems, offering users a cohesive and intuitive experience. Additionally, it comes pre-installed in TomTom’s Digital Cockpit, an open, modular in-vehicle infotainment platform.
TomTom’s Chief Financial Officer, Taco Titulaer, highlighted the company’s strategic focus on generative AI, emphasizing investments in time, financial resources, and personnel dedicated to advancing this technology. In July, TomTom introduced an LLM (large language model) plug-in for ChatGPT, allowing users to plan trips and explore new locations using the company’s comprehensive maps.
The collaboration between TomTom and Microsoft dates back to 2016 when TomTom first powered Azure Maps location services. This latest venture underscores their commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the automotive and technology sectors. As the automotive industry embraces AI-driven advancements, TomTom’s move positions it at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge solutions that enhance the in-car experience through natural and intelligent interactions.
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