Rivian is adding a new AI support to its latest software

Rivian quickly made a name for itself as one of the automotive industry’s leaders when it comes to automotive software. Its a refined approach to electric vehicle design earned $5 billion from the Volkswagen Group, and its home infotainment system is loved by owners even though there are no plans within the company to support the smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Without the glasses of the phone – and how it helps to use Siri or Google Assistant hands-free while driving – Rivian has now added an AI digital assistant to its latest software, which is compatible with both. senior Gen1 Rivians (model-year 2024 and beyond) as well the latest Gen2 models.

Rivian’s agent came out of his latest updates2026.15, for all owners who have subscribed to or tried Connect+, Rivian’s connectivity services. You activate it like most digital assistants, either with a button on the steering wheel, an icon on the infotainment screen, or with an introductory voice – in this case “Hey Rivian” or “Okay, Rivian.”

Because the assistant runs inside Rivian’s private cloud, it has deep integration into EV systems similar to BMW’s and Mercedes-Benz’s offerings, instead of the traditional in-car AI assistant provided by Google to OEMs using Android Automotive and Google Automotive Services. Rivian says the AI ​​can “control the car’s settings, climate control, navigation, media, texting, and calling,” can refer to the owner’s manual, answer questions, search for information, and interpret vehicle information and help you solve problems.