Kakao’s AI navigation app now available in more cars

Kakao’s artificially intelligent navigation system, which is currently only available in Hyundai Motor’s Genesis G70 sedan, will be included in more than 10 different Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors models through a software update Thursday.

The models include Hyundai’s i30, Avante, Sonata New Rise and Grandeur, and Kia’s K7 HEV, Stinger and Sportage.

Drivers only need to press the voice recognition button on the vehicle’s steering wheel to active the AI system.

The assistant can display the driver’s destination on the navigation app on the vehicle’s built-in screen through voice commands, and search restaurants, tourist destinations and gas stations nearby.

Kakao, the operator of the popular mobile chat app Kakao Talk, has been collaborating with Hyundai Motor Group on its AI platform, Kakao I.

By Seo Ji-eun