SoundHound to Offer On-Chip Voice AI with NVIDIA

SoundHound AI, a provider of voice artificial intelligence, has launched an in-vehicle voice assistant that uses a large language model (LLM) completely on the edge while running on the NVIDIA DRIVE platform.

NVIDIA DRIVE will enable the SoundHound Chat AI in-vehicle voice platform, which combines both real-time and generative AI capabilities, to provide responses even when there is no connectivity.

Among a range of use cases, the new solution will let drivers access SoundHound Vehicle Intelligence, which instantly delivers information directly from the car manual and other relevant data sources using natural speech.

Vehicle Intelligence understands verbal requests and provides answers, including settings, safety, troubleshooting, and vehicle maintenance, without a physical document. Examples include the following:

• "I see a flashing light that looks like a car battery and I'm not sure what that means."
• "What does the auto hold button do?"
• "How do I use that feature that lets me drive hands-free safely?"

In addition to Vehicle Intelligence, users can ask more general questions that can help them plan trips or vacations, such as the following:

• <em"Where are the best locations to take photographs on the Pacific Coast Highway?"
• "Which wineries offer riesling in Carmel Valley?"
• "What kinds of dishes count as Californian cuisine?"

"Together with NVIDIA, we're marrying the incredible capabilities of generative AI with all the advantages of edge computing," said Mike Zagorsek, chief operating officer of SoundHound AI, in a statement. "The net result is a fast and private voice experience with seamless results. And with this new level of adaptability, the possibilities are endless."

"We're working with innovative partners like SoundHound to bring generative AI and accelerated compute into the car, enhancing the occupant experience and bringing greater safety behind the wheel," said Rishi Dhall, vice president of automotive at NVIDIA, in a statement. "SoundHound's in-vehicle voice interface, powered by NVIDIA DRIVE, can provide drivers with fast, accurate information, even when ther's no connection."