iHeartMedia released details of a series of voice assistant and automotive integrations for iHeartRadio, its digital music, live streaming radio and podcasting service.
New integrations include improved voice recognition and language understanding tools by Cerence, and a new audio interface for in-car listening by TomTom. Details:
Cerence
Cerence, an big name in mobility AI, will offer drivers alternative ways to access iHeartRadio’s portfolio of audio content via its voice recognition and natural language understanding tools.
Fisker Auto
Fisker will include the iHeartRadio streaming app in the entertainment system of the Fisker Ocean all-electric SUV, the centerpiece of which is a 17.1-inch touchscreen. The company will provide customers with access to iHeartRadio’s radio stations as part of its strategy to enable a wider range of entertainment options in Fisker vehicles.
Native Voice
Native Voice will offer up its on-demand voice assistant library to enable iHeartRadio users to communicate by voice with their favorite brands.
Early this year, anyone with a Skull-IQ enabled Skullcandy device (Grind, Grind Fuel, Push Active) can say “Hey iHeart” for hands-free access to iHeartRadio’s content without having to download the iHeart app.
[Related: “iHeart Partners With Native Voice“]
TomTom
The new TomTom Digital Cockpit integration will allow car manufacturers to offer iHeartRadio on the vehicle display. Through a single interface, drivers can access personal playlists, podcasts and live radio stations in the car without having to connect their smartphones, since the feature comes natively integrated into the in-dash infotainment system.
VinFast
Automotive company VinFast will add the features of the iHeartRadio app into the infotainment system of VinFast electric vehicles sold in the United States, scheduled to begin hitting U.S. roadways in early 2023. Attendees of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) could check out this integration by catching a VinFast Chauffeured ride operating between designated hotels and the Las Vegas Convention Center.
