AT&T, within the Peachtree "Connected" City, GA collaboration framework with Panasonic Automotive Systems of America along with QNX Software Systems, has announced plans to begin developing a connected, voice-enabled virtual assistant for use by automotive manufacturers. The technology will be backed by AT&T's patented Watson speech engine, providing a complete cloud based voice-enabled natural language mobile virtual assistant solution for wirelessly connected vehicles.
A prototype is being developed that will demonstrate a connectivity strategy for automotive virtual assistance. It will be used to develop a complete voice enabled mobile virtual assistant solution for the connected vehicles platform that is designed to limit driver distraction by focusing on customer needs and system interface usability to improve safety and comfort.
AT&T and Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America formed a working agreement in 2011 to explore and test connectivity solutions for consumers and commuters. The collaboration provides a framework for the two companies to jointly create customised products for global automotive manufacturers in North America. Initial concept testing for in-car infotainment systems and emerging mobile devices interface is taking place now in the Peachtree City testing community.