Anyone considering buying a Toyota soon could get improved voice assistant technology. Right now, Toyota uses a voice assistant that sometimes requires internet connectivity to provide its services consistently. However, the voice assistant system will improve by turning to Google Cloud’s AI-based speech services. With no internet connection required, Toyota‘s voice assistant will improve by using Google Pixel technology.

How is Toyota using Google Pixel technology?

According to CarScoops, Toyota announced that it would utilize Google Cloud’s AI-based speech services in its cars. In short, customers can use the Toyota Voice Assistant whether or not they’re connected to the internet. The publication says that the machine-learning capability required for accurate and consistent voice interactions relies heavily on an internet connection. Moreover, most vehicles still don’t have onboard Wi-Fi connectivity, and those that do require a paid subscription fee.

Even for people who do pay for a Wi-Fi connection in their vehicle, it doesn’t always work. For example, the connection is usually lost when driving through tunnels or just in very remote areas. When that’s the case, the voice assistant no longer functions as it should. Using Google Pixel technology, Toyota’s voice assistant can now run on small devices, making it possible for the system to run without an internet connection.

Toyota expanded its partnership with Google Cloud

“By working closely with Toyota to understand its in-vehicle device requirements and capabilities, we were able to provide server-like quality while using only a small fraction of the processing power to ensure the best possible experience for drivers,” said Umesh Vemuri VP, Global Strategic Customers & Industries, Google Cloud, according to CarScoops.

Google Cloud’s expanded partnership with Toyota can be seen in the latest generation of Toyota Audio Multimedia and Lexus Interface systems. Further, 2023 models like the Toyota Tundra, Sequoia, Camry, and Lexus RX, RZ, and NX all use it. Buying a 2023 model year Toyota or Lexus model will likely send you into the future using the new Google Pixel technology with their voice assistant systems.

“Today’s announcement represents refinement that comes with years of collaboration between Toyota and Google Cloud to perfect how our technologies work with one another,” said Steve Basra, CEO and president of Toyota Connected North America.

What did Toyota already use Google technology for?

According to CarScoops, Toyota already uses Google Cloud’s Speech-to-Text service to perform automatic speech recognition on its latest generation Automotive Grade Linux-based Audio Multimedia infotainment system. Moreover, many automakers are transitioning their infotainment systems to software developers instead of creating them in-house.

Companies like Google are far ahead of automakers for these types of systems. With a partnership, it immediately improves in-vehicle technology with little effort from the car manufacturer. For example, some GMC, Volvo, Ford, and Lincoln cars use Android Automotive. The system from Google is a fully-featured operating system coming pre-loaded on head units.

In conclusion, Toyota’s voice assistant is getting better for 2023 models. Moreover, it’s adopting Google Pixel technology, allowing owners to use their devices to communicate with the Toyota or Lexus voice assistant. As a result, owners will no longer experience outages when an internet connection is unavailable.