Mercedes Talks Up New Voice Control System

Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz unit is upgrading its Linguatronic voice-activation system to make it easier to use and control more  features.

In addition to a variety of infotainment functions such as the audio, navigation and phone systems, users now will be able to speak commands to adjust the climate control and seat settings, including seat heaters and lumbar massage. Mercedes says the new system can be used to access various data such as vehicle speed, estimated remaining driving range and recommended service dates.

Linguatronics also has been updated to better understand natural speaking patterns and give more human-like responses, according to the carmaker. Mercedes says hundreds of alternatives in more than a dozen languages are available for various voice commands, increasing the likelihood the system will correctly understand a user’s intent on the first attempt. It also will be easier to interrupt a voice response and move on to a different dialog.

The enhanced system debuts this year in the new E-Class sedan.