Volkswagen and Cerence Expand Strategic Partnership; Premier Automaker Selects Cerence to Power Conversational AI in its Next-Gen Infotainment System

Rhea-AI Summary

Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC) has announced Volkswagen's selection of its AI technology to power the next-gen infotainment system in the Golf 8 GTI. This system, launching in early 2022, boasts significant enhancements in speed and accuracy, enabling intuitive voice interactions. By employing Cerence Drive 2.0, the interface supports natural communication and learns from driver preferences over time. This partnership highlights both companies' commitment to innovation in user experience and safety in connected mobility.

Positive

• Volkswagen selects Cerence for voice AI in Golf 8 GTI, enhancing user interaction.
• Cerence Drive 2.0 technology improves speed and accuracy in voice commands.
• Continuous learning capabilities in the AI system personalize user experience.

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• None.

New levels of speed and accuracy transform the driving experience for Volkswagen drivers, starting in the Golf 8 GTI

BURLINGTON, Mass., March 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC), AI for a world in motion, today announced that Volkswagen has selected Cerence to power voice and conversational AI in its next-generation infotainment system, first available in the all-new Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI. This enhanced system features improved speed and higher accuracy, delivering natural, intuitive interaction to VW drivers.

Activated with a simple, “Hey Volkswagen,” VW’s new interactive voice interface leverages Cerence Drive 2.0, which integrates the best of Cerence’s embedded and cloud natural language understanding and text to speech technologies in one unified software stack to deliver one of the fastest, most intelligent AI assistant platforms on the market today. In addition, VW will use Cerence speech signal enhancement, a suite of sound processing technologies that remove noise from microphone inputs, critical for the in-car environment. The system is constantly learning driver preferences based on previous commands and behaviors, making interaction with the assistant increasingly intuitive over time.

“Our next-gen infotainment system is critical as we redefine innovation and user experience,” said Dr. Axel Heinrich, Head of Electric- / Electronics Volkswagen Brand. “We’re delighted to continue our long-term partnership and collaboration with Cerence and utilize their new Cerence Drive 2.0 platform to bring incredibly fast and accurate conversational AI interaction to our drivers.”

“Volkswagen has a long legacy of meaningful innovation that puts its drivers at the forefront,” said Stefan Ortmanns, CEO, Cerence. “The next-generation Volkswagen infotainment system is no exception, and we are proud to partner with VW as they unveil a new era of intuitive voice interaction that will enhance driver safety and productivity while on the road.”

The Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI now available in the US is the first VW model with the next-gen infotainment system. This update will be available across other models via over-the-air updates at the beginning of 2022.

To learn more about Cerence, visit www.cerence.com, and follow the company on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Cerence Inc.
Cerence (NASDAQ: CRNC) is the global industry leader in creating unique, moving experiences for the mobility world. As an innovation partner to the world’s leading automakers and mobility OEMs, it is helping advance the future of connected mobility through intuitive, powerful interaction between humans and their cars, two-wheelers, and even elevators, connecting consumers’ digital lives to their daily journeys no matter where they are. Cerence’s track record is built on more than 20 years of knowledge and more than 400 million cars shipped with Cerence technology. Whether it’s connected cars, autonomous driving, e-vehicles, or buildings, Cerence is mapping the road ahead. For more information, visit www.cerence.com.

Contact Information
Kate Hickman
Cerence Inc.
Tel: 339-215-4583
Email: kate.hickman@cerence.com

FAQ

What is Cerence's technology used in the Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI?

Cerence's AI technology is powering the voice and conversational interfaces in the Volkswagen Golf 8 GTI's infotainment system.

When will the new infotainment system be available in other Volkswagen models?

The new infotainment system will be available across other Volkswagen models via over-the-air updates starting in early 2022.

What improvements does Cerence Drive 2.0 offer for Volkswagen vehicles?

Cerence Drive 2.0 enhances speed, accuracy, and personalization in voice interactions for Volkswagen vehicles.

How does the new voice interface in the Golf 8 GTI function?

Drivers can activate the voice interface with the command 'Hey Volkswagen,' allowing for natural and intuitive interactions.

Is Cerence a market leader in AI for automotive applications?

Yes, Cerence is recognized as a global industry leader in creating AI-driven experiences for mobility.