GM plans a talking car assistant that can run checks and tasks for you

General Motors says it plans to put a talking assistant in your next car. It is called OnStar AI, and GM plans to debut it in the 2027 Cadillac Lyriq, an electric Cadillac. You speak to it, and it can make the car do things and check the car for trouble.

What it does

According to Wired's report, OnStar AI can carry out vehicle functions through voice commands. That means you ask, and the car acts, instead of you pressing buttons or digging through menus. It can also run diagnostics. In plain terms, the car checks itself for problems and can tell you what it finds.

Wired describes GM's goal as a car that acts like a personal assistant, a best friend and an autonomous errand-runner. That is a big promise, and the report material does not spell out what errands it means.

What is not known yet

• The price, and whether OnStar AI will cost extra or need a subscription.
• The exact launch date beyond the 2027 model year.
• Which vehicle functions it can control by voice.
• What data it collects and how that data is used.
• Whether it will come to other GM vehicles.

Who it affects

Anyone shopping for a new car in the next few years may see more voice assistants like this one. The idea is that talking to the car could replace some buttons and menus. That could be handy, but it also raises questions about cost and privacy.

What to do

When you shop for a new car, ask the dealer whether the assistant is free or a paid add-on. Ask what it records, such as your voice, and who can see it. Also ask whether you can still use regular controls.