GM adding an AI ‘intelligence layer’ to OnStar
Dive Brief:
- General Motors is adding an AI-based intelligence layer to its OnStar in-vehicle assistant that will deliver more personalized, proactive experiences across the vehicle, the automaker announced in an Oct. 21 press release.
- The generative AI features combine real-time vehicle specific data with context and connected services via OnStar, as well as through the OnStar mobile app starting in 2027 and via the automaker’s new Onstar Fleet Intelligence platform, per the release.
- The new AI-powered OnStar assistant will debut in the 2027 Cadillac Lyriq electric SUV in the coming months via an over-the-air update, with additional GM vehicles to follow, per the release.
Dive Insight:
GM launched OnStar in 1996 for select models. It connects drivers with live support for roadside assistance or help with other issues, such as a flat tire. With the integration of conversational AI, the OnStar platform will offer drivers more personalized assistance and deeper insights, enabling it to complete complex tasks that general-purpose assistants cannot, according to the company.
The OnStar AI Assistant is vehicle-specific and also serves as an owner’s manual of a vehicle, so it can also help GM customers learn about their specific vehicle safety features, such as lane-keep assist, and get answers to any questions they have on its usage. For GM’s electric vehicle customers, the OnStar AI assistant can also check real-time range and map charging stops.
The OnStar AI Assistant can also connect GM customers with a human OnStar Advisor, if needed.
The new AI-powered OnStar mobile app will replace the current OnStar Guardian and Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC vehicle companion apps, delivering a unified experience across GM models and devices.
The new version of OnStar also supports connected cameras, allowing GM customers to receive automatic incident recordings and other important details when a trigger is detected, such as an aggressive horn honk. Once triggered, a vehicle’s cameras will automatically capture the event, securely upload it to the OnStar app, then send an alert to review what happened.
Another feature called OnStar Family connects family members with vehicles and routines, allowing them to share destinations, coordinate pickups, monitor other family vehicles and receive relevant safety or community alerts, per the release.
GM also says it’s addressed in this new version of OnStar consumers’ long-standing privacy concerns through analytics data streams and opt-out policies. Features are only activated if customers choose up front to use them, and they can switch them off at any time, it says.
OnStar’s camera, microphone, location, and AI permissions have all been designed with clear indicators and simple settings, giving customers full-control of what data, if any, is shared. In addition, all camera recordings are encrypted and have time limits and GM cannot access any of the recordings.