BMW vehicles to adopt Kakao unit's voice AI system

SEOUL, October 28 (AJP) - Kakao’s artificial intelligence model, Kanana, is set to make its global debut through a partnership with BMW.

DK Techin, Kakao’s IT service subsidiary, said Tuesday that it had signed an agreement with BMW Group to develop a Korean-language voice AI system for the German automaker’s vehicles. The signing took place at DK Techin’s headquarters in Seongnam, south of Seoul.

Under the partnership, BMW’s upcoming models will feature Kanana-powered voice recognition technology, allowing drivers to control a range of functions and access in-car services through natural conversation. The collaboration represents Kanana’s first step into global markets and a key milestone in Kakao’s broader AI ambitions.

The companies plan to develop an AI-driven vehicle control system that will eventually incorporate large language model–based generative AI, enhancing both the precision of vehicle commands and the quality of infotainment services. The integration aims to deliver a more intuitive and personalized driving experience for BMW customers.

“We plan to combine our expertise in vehicle control systems with Kanana’s AI capabilities to implement a next-generation automotive intelligence platform,” said Lee Won-joo, chief executive of DK Techin. “Through this collaboration, we aim to elevate BMW’s customer experience and brand satisfaction.”

The partnership underscores a growing trend among automakers turning to tech firms to strengthen in-car AI and digital ecosystems.

For Kakao, best known for its popular messaging platform and expanding AI portfolio, the deal with BMW represents a crucial test of its ability to compete on the global stage.

* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.

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