Harman, Baidu in AI partnership for Chinese automotive market

The two companies will collaborate to integrate Baidu’s DuerOS-based personal digital assistant and voice recognition engine technologies with Harman’s connected car and cloud platforms.

DuerOS is an open operating system that already supports access to a voice-activated digital assistant for mobile phones, TVs, speakers, and other devices, while providing access to third-party developers. Together, the companies will now collaborate to create smart automotive features including automatic speech recognition (ASR) in English and Mandarin, natural language processing and speech synthesis.

The agreement builds on Harman’s existing relationship with Baidu struck over two years ago to launch a vehicle networking solution with advanced Internet capabilities, entertainment features and location-based services (CarLife).

“The partnership between Baidu and Harman will let consumers use natural voice control to more safely and conveniently interact with their cars and access off-board information and services,” said Qi Lu, Group President and Chief Operating Officer at Baidu.

在汽车市场之外,这两家公司so plan to deliver high-quality audio solutions for innovative speech-enabled smart speakers, also integrated with Baidu’s advanced AI technology.