Natural Conversations Hit the Road
BMW is stepping up its infotainment game. It will be the first automaker to integrate Amazon’s new Alexa+ voice assistant, built on generative AI. Unlike older systems, Alexa+ doesn’t rely on fixed phrases. Instead, it understands fluid, everyday speech — making in-car conversations feel far more natural.
That means no more robotic “set navigation to…” commands. Now, you can say something like, “Find a charger nearby with a good café, then play my road trip playlist.” It’s smart, flexible, and personal.
Always Connected, Wherever You Are
Alexa+ connects seamlessly across devices. Conversations started at home can continue in your car — creating a continuous smart assistant experience. It taps into over 70 large language models, giving it the power to answer, plan, and respond intelligently across a wide range of topics.
This marks a major leap forward for in-car voice tech. It’s not just about asking for directions — it’s about real-time thinking and contextual responses.
Custom Integration, BMW Style
BMW has used Alexa-based tech for years, but Alexa+ is a huge upgrade. The new system will live inside BMW’s iDrive infotainment, which is built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) but runs BMW’s own custom interface. Unlike Volvo’s integration of Google Gemini, BMW doesn’t rely on Android Automotive or Google Maps.
Smarter Voice, Smarter EV Experience
As BMW leans further into electrification, Alexa+ could become a key player in enhancing the overall EV driving experience. From planning routes with charging stops to managing climate and entertainment, the assistant can streamline daily driving tasks with conversational ease.
Imagine saying, “Find a DC fast charger with a coffee shop nearby,” and your car instantly adjusts your route and queues up your favorite podcast. Alexa+ isn’t just answering questions — it’s thinking ahead.
Still, BMW promises that Alexa+ will feel deeply integrated, not like a bolted-on app. The first models to get the new AI assistant haven’t been announced, but Amazon says the rollout will begin “soon.”
