Amap upgrades AI ride-hailing service with natural language commands

Chinese mapping giant Amap (Gaode Maps) has upgraded its integrated "AI Ride Butler" service, allowing users to book personalized ride-hailing services using natural language commands. The feature is initially available to users who update their app to the latest version in cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Chengdu.

Instead of navigating menus or typing in specific requests, users can now press and hold the microphone icon in the Amap app and state their requirements and destination. For example, a user could say: "A family of three going to Capital Airport, with an elderly person who gets carsick."

The AI system interprets these requests to arrange a suitable vehicle and provide specific instructions to the driver. In the example given, the AI would arrange for a fuel-powered car and inform the driver: "There is an elderly person in the car who gets carsick, requiring smooth driving and the windows to be partially open for ventilation."

Beyond special requests, the "AI Ride Butler" also continuously monitors route and speed during the trip, with the ability to trigger automatic response mechanisms if issues arise. Amap has also partnered with service providers to offer select vehicle models and implement systematic training for drivers on service etiquette and driving standards to ensure consistent quality.