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Oh dear, Skoda is also integrating ChatGPT into its infotainment systems

You thought Skoda was the sensible member of the VW Group? We have some bad news for you…

Published: 15 Jan 2024

Just last week Volkswagen announced that it was going to integrate the large-language model ChatGPT into the infotainment systems of its cars. Like most of you, we thought this was generally a pretty terrible idea, and yet Skoda has inexplicably decided that it should follow VW’s lead.

Yep, previously held in high regard as the sensible member of the VW Group, Skoda has decided to bring AI to its Laura voice assistant. Doh!

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Heck, this is the company lauded recently for bringing back proper knobs and buttons on the interiors of the new Superb and Kodiaq. Way to go and ruin it, Skoda.

“Enriching Skoda voice assistance with artificial intelligence makes our cars an even better everyday companion,” says boss Klaus Zellmer.

“Drivers and passengers will have easy, verbal access to worlds of knowledge while on the road. Integrating ChatGPT into our voice assistant Laura is just the latest way that Skoda adapts advanced technology to improve the driving experience. Everything remains hands-free for the driver, and data security remains a priority. I am confident that customers will appreciate this modern new feature.”

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You can read TG’s thoughts on the matter by clicking these blue words, but like VW, Skoda does say that “ChatGPT does not have access to personal data or vehicle information”.

The AI assistant will be available on ‘selected versions’ of the Enyaq as well as the new-gen Superb and the facelifted Octavia. Like in VWs (and in certain DS cars equipped with the trial feature) it’ll essentially be used to control the infotainment, sat nav and air conditioning, but Skoda claims it will also enrich conversations, clear up questions and interact in intuitive language.

Do we really need our cars to enrich our conversations?

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