German automaker Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its latest update to the MBUX Virtual Assistant, showcasing new features including an NFT gallery and an AI voice assistant with "emotional profiles." The company presented the enhanced virtual assistant during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

Powered by generative AI and running on the next-generation Mercedez-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), the updated MBUX Virtual Assistant is being hailed as the "most human-like interface with a Mercedes-Benz yet." According to Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer at Mercedes-Benz, the virtual assistant utilizes a large language model (LLM) to interact with drivers, offering four distinct "emotional profiles" known as natural, predictive, personal, and empathetic modes.

Schäfer highlighted that through advancements in artificial intelligence, the next generation of Mercedes-Benz cars will develop an unprecedented understanding of their drivers. The virtual assistant will learn and adapt to driver preferences, such as automatically tuning into their preferred radio station during the morning commute or activating seat massagers and dimming lights for night driving.

Mercedes-Benz had previously announced its collaboration with OpenAI's ChatGPT chatbot for the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) voice assistant. However, Schäfer clarified that the final product may not necessarily be limited to ChatGPT, as Mercedes-Benz is open to exploring alternative chatbots if they offer a better experience for customers. This could include using alternative LLMs for improved localization in different regions.

It is crucial to note that drivers have the option to opt out of the program, and the virtual assistant only gathers data from individual cars, ensuring privacy and personalized experiences. The updated MBUX Virtual Assistant is set to launch in early 2025.

In addition to the virtual assistant upgrade, Mercedes-Benz is revamping its navigation and in-car entertainment systems. The company has collaborated with recording artist Will.i.am to develop MBUX Sound Drive, an in-car music experience that adapts music to the way the car is being driven.

Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new in-car app called MBUX Collectibles, allowing drivers to display their non-fungible token (NFT) collections on the vehicle's dashboard. The app showcases Mercedes-Benz's own NXT NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain, adding a unique and personalized touch to the driving experience.

Alongside these innovative advancements, Mercedes-Benz has been actively applying blockchain technology to tackle environmental concerns in its supply chain. In collaboration with traceability start-up Circulor, the automaker has been piloting a project since 2020 to track CO2 emissions in its cobalt supply chain using blockchain.

With the introduction of the updated MBUX Virtual Assistant and other technological innovations, Mercedes-Benz continues to push boundaries in enhancing the driving experience while incorporating sustainable practices.