Top 5 Reasons Voice AI is Driving the Future of Auto

Consumer expectations also go well beyond just having cloud connectivity. They also want to be able to command embedded features, such as rolling up and down the windows, adjusting the air, and turning on or off seat warmers with their voice. A hybrid model, one with cloud connectivity and embedded functionality, provides the optimal user experience by giving drivers access to the wealth of information on the cloud as well as all the convenience of embedded features. It’s also useful if the driver veers into a scenic route or mountains without WIFI so they can still use some features of the voice assistant even when they’re not connected to the cloud. 

2. Need for streamlined voice AI design

Whether it’s for a smartphone, tablet, or smart TV, anything with a screen needs an exceptional design to entice the customer to purchase and continue to use it. Voice assistants are no exception. A poor voice AI design could lead to user frustration and even abandonment of the voice assistant, maybe forever. 

The main challenge for the auto industry is designing a simple, intuitive, and effective voice interface that quickly and accurately understands the user, has the knowledge to provide useful responses, and allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road. A voice AI fails if it misinterprets the user, requiring the user to take their eyes off of the road and onto a screen. In-car experiences must be equal—if not better—than the technology that’s already available on people’s phones. Safety depends on it. 

The future of in-car interfaces will be heavily influenced by the evolution of voice AI. Auto companies are already investing heavily in developing the next generation of infotainment systems with monetization and personalization capabilities. Auto brands that don’t keep up with changing consumer expectations will be left behind as competitors gain market share.

3. Enhancing safety on the roads

While consumers may want more convenience and functionality in their driving experience, a focus on improving safety is one of the most valuable benefits of voice assistants. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving accounts for 8% of fatal crashes, 15% of injury crashes, and 14% of all police-reported motor vehicle traffic crashes. 

Keeping hands on the wheel and eyes on the road is more than just a feature for a great user experience but one that actively prevents crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Voice assistants have become just as valuable of an asset as advanced features, such as emergency braking, sensors, blind-spot monitors, and collision warnings. Even looking down for a second to roll up and down the windows or to skip a song could be a second too late. 

A truly seamless and efficient voice assistant can help prevent drivers from taking their eyes off the road. The desire for increased in-car productivity doesn’t have to come at the expense of safety. With voice assistants, brands can ensure their customers have all of the features and a safe driving experience. Auto-manufactures that don’t currently have voice AI on their roadmaps should invest before their technology becomes as outdated as key ignitions.

4. The future of autonomous cars

Self-driving cars have continuously been touted as the future of the automotive industry. According to Allied Market Research, the global autonomous vehicle market size was valued at $54.23 billion in 2019 and will grow to be worth $556.67 billion by 2026. In an already crowded space with multiple companies racing to build and launch autonomous vehicles, voice AI can directly impact this new market by giving brands with superior voice AI an edge over their competitors.

Autonomous cars have yet to become a widespread reality, and profits and brand awareness will be higher for the first company that successfully launches a widely available, voice-enabled AI solution. However, not all voice AI is created equal. A truly conversational interface that delivers fast, accurate responses to conversational speech could be the differentiator needed in a saturated market. 

5. Controlling brand experiences and user data

Voice AI has created what can only be described as an arms race to see who can capture market shares faster. While voice AI is driving in-car accessibility and increased utility, automakers remain focused on maintaining control over their brand, user experiences, and customer data.