Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like belting out your favourite song in the beloved privacy of your car. And now, Cerence is giving drivers an entirely revamped experience. Its latest offering, Cerence Sing, is a “completely voice-controlled karaoke experience designed specifically for drivers” that allows drivers to learn, practice and perform their favourite songs while on the go.
VinFast has signed on as Cerence Sing’s first customer, and will now integrate the karaoke experience into the VF 8 and VF 9 EVs with the aim of “improving the driving experience and making VinFast EVs friendly companions in everyday life.” The Cerence Sing platform will offer drivers access to a comprehensive catalogue of more than 100,000 songs in more than 12 languages, powered by Stingray’s API technology.
VinFast
The Cerence Sing was created with driver safety in mind, and is integrated directly with the car’s headunit and automotive assistant to enable hands-free, voice-activated control. Cerence Sing is available in two modes:
• Driver mode:100 per cent voice controlled, enabling drivers to request, learn, and practice songs and receive spoken lyrics and tips directly from the automotive assistant – all without any visual distractions or temptation to take their eyes off the road.
• Classic mode, available only when parked, integrates a visual experience through the car’s headunit and enables passengers to enjoy a more traditional, group-centric karaoke experience. They can browse and select songs both by voice and on the car’s touchscreen and use lyrics display, visual cues and background videos to enhance the fun.
The platform also offers “advanced features” which promise to enhance the experience with audio AI functionality that enables playback and voice effects.
“Singing in the car comes naturally to people, and our user studies reveal a deep desire and appreciation for technology that can make this age-old pastime even more fun. With the power of Stingray Karaoke, Cerence Sing does just that by creating a never-before-seen, driver-centric, voice-enabled karaoke experience,” said Stefan Ortmanns, CEO, Cerence. “We’re excited to bring this globally beloved, universally popular activity to the car – first with VinFast – in a driver-friendly package that maximizes safety and enjoyment through innovative, powerful voice and AI technology.”
Vinast is set to start selling the VF 8 and VF 9 in Europe in the second half of 2022 and in North America close to the end of this year.
