BMW's Next Voice Assistant Will Use Amazon Alexa Technology?

Many automakers are using tech giants to develop a variety of in-vehicle systems, providing a level of technology that is familiar to owners. For example, many automakers have adopted Google's Android operating system and built-in apps for their infotainment systems.

The latest is BMW, which announced that its next-generation voice assistant will use technology from Amazon's Alexa voice assistant. The announcement was made at Amazon's 2022 Devices and Services launch event on Wednesday.

"Alexa technology will make the interaction between driver and vehicle more natural and allow drivers to focus on the road," Stephan Durach, head of connectivity and technology business development at BMW Group, said in a statement.

BMW is still planning its own voice assistant suitable for various functions linked to the car. It also plans to implement its own data protection measures separate from Alexa. For those familiar with Alexa, it will also be available in BMW vehicles; according to BMW, the two systems will work in conjunction with each other.

BMW said that the first vehicles with Alexa-backed voice assistants will be available within the next two years.