Summary
- Rivian’s EVs will have text messaging capabilities in 2025
- The solution will include native text-to-speech via a new voice tech stack
- Native YouTube application and Google Cast will be included in the next software update
- Rivian has faced challenges with existing text-to-speech solutions for Android
- New voice tech stack will offer a more seamless and improved experience than current solutions
Article
Rivian’s Chief Software Officer has confirmed that the company’s electric vehicles will receive text messaging capabilities in 2025. This text messaging solution will utilize native text-to-speech functionality through a new voice tech stack. Despite initial promises made two years ago, this functionality has yet to be included in any of Rivian’s EVs. In a recent chat with the media and owners, Bensaid explained that previous attempts at text-to-speech were not satisfactory due to problems such as fragmentation and missing texts. The team is working on a new voice tech stack that will not only improve text-to-speech capabilities but also enhance the overall user experience.
The existing solutions for text messaging in the industry are deemed insufficient by Rivian’s CSO, Bensaid. He expressed concerns about the lack of a rich experience, along with issues related to group chats, emojis, and reactions. The previous attempts at implementing text-to-speech were deemed unsatisfactory, prompting the development of a new voice tech stack to redefine the text messaging experience. Bensaid emphasized the importance of a seamless and user-friendly interface for both iOS and Android users, despite the majority of Rivian owners reportedly using Apple devices.
In addition to text messaging capabilities, the next software update for Rivian’s electric vehicles will introduce Google Cast and a native YouTube application. Bensaid revealed that the Google Cast feature will support over 3,000 applications, but Netflix integration is still in progress. The update will also include Dolby Surround Sound, although a specific timeline for this feature was not provided. While Google Cast will initially be available on the front screen of Rivian’s vehicles, there are plans to extend this functionality to rear screens, allowing passengers to use the feature while driving.
Rivian’s focus on improving software capabilities reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing the overall user experience for its customers. Despite delays in implementing text messaging abilities, Rivian’s Chief Software Officer has reassured owners that the upcoming features will exceed industry standards. The combination of text-to-speech functionality with a new voice tech stack demonstrates Rivian’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. The upcoming software update, which includes Google Cast and Dolby Surround Sound, further reinforces Rivian’s position as a leader in the electric vehicle industry.
In addressing the challenges of previous text messaging solutions, Rivian’s CSO highlighted the importance of creating a seamless and intuitive interface for both iOS and Android users. By developing a new voice tech stack, Rivian aims to provide a superior text-to-speech experience that is more reliable and user-friendly. The company’s commitment to continuous improvement is evident in its efforts to address shortcomings and deliver enhanced features that exceed customer expectations. The upcoming software update, featuring Google Cast and Dolby Surround Sound, reflects Rivian’s ongoing dedication to innovation and excellence in software development for electric vehicles.
Overall, Rivian’s future software updates promise to deliver an enhanced user experience through features such as text messaging capabilities, Google Cast, and Dolby Surround Sound. By leveraging a new voice tech stack and improved interface design, Rivian aims to revolutionize the way users interact with their electric vehicles. The upcoming features demonstrate Rivian’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and setting new industry standards for software integration in electric vehicles. Owners can expect a seamless and engaging experience with the new software updates, positioning Rivian as a leader in software development for electric vehicles.
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