Without physical use of the phone: GPT chat will integrate into Apple’s CarPlay system in the car

In the case of ChatGPT, use is limited to voice communication only. This means that the system will not display textual or visual answers on the vehicle’s screen, but will read them to the driver. Apple even requires the use of a dedicated interface that includes a voice control screen with up to four action buttons, to maintain simplicity and safety.

The capabilities offered by the system at this stage focus on answering general questions, information requests, drafting texts or assisting in conversations, all without the use of hands. However, there are clear limitations: ChatGPT cannot control the functions of the vehicle or the iPhone, and it cannot be activated by voice activation. To use it, the driver is required to open the app manually first.

The CarPlay system itself has been operating for years and supports a variety of applications, but Apple makes sure to limit the types of applications available. Among the approved categories are navigation, music, communication and electric vehicle charging apps. A combination of smart chatbots marks a careful expansion of the field, while trying to incorporate advanced technology without harming driving safety.

Along with the opportunities, questions also arise. On the one hand, it is a tool that may reduce dangerous use of the phone while driving, and allow access to information in a more convenient and safe way. On the other hand, there is a fear of cognitive distraction, even when the hands remain on the wheel and the eyes on the road.