Voice driven navigation solution from Mapbox and Cerence AI

Mapbox, the mapping and location services provider, and Cerence Inc. (“Cerence AI”), have announced a partnership in which the companies will integrate Mapbox navigation services and data with Cerence AI’s solutions, including its in-car assistant platform. Together, the companies will deliver a fully integrated, voice-powered navigation solution designed to streamline development, enhance user experience, and drive the future of in-vehicle and on-device navigation. The companies’ integrated offering will launch in Q1 2025, and Private Preview access is available now.

Voice driven navigation solution from Mapbox and Cerence AI

Automotive OEMs often struggle with integrating separate voice services, smart assistants and navigation systems, resulting in longer development cycles, inconsistent user experiences, and ongoing maintenance challenges. This partnership addresses those issues by combining Cerence AI’s advanced voice capabilities with Mapbox’s industry-leading navigation platform, enabling streamlined, voice-driven experiences across in-vehicle head units, mobile apps, and tablets.

Mapbox and Cerence AI

Starting in Q1 2025, Mapbox customers will have access to a new Navigation SDK that integrates core technologies from Cerence AI, including Cerence Speech Signal Enhancement for noise reduction, speech recognition, and text-to-speech. These solutions are optimized for both connected and embedded/offline environments, allowing developers to focus on user-centric applications without the burden of complex integrations.

"Integrating Cerence AI’s voice expertise directly into Mapbox Navigation helps us deliver an in-car experience that’s both intuitive and delightful. Our drivers benefit from clear, natural-sounding prompts and hands-free interaction that elevate the entire navigation experience," said Peter Sirota, Chief Executive Officer at Mapbox.

"Collaborating with Mapbox to bring their advanced navigation services and AI-powered location data directly into our platform creates a game-changing experience for our customers and helps overcome challenges in destination entry for end users. This collaboration not only streamlines in-vehicle and mobile development, but also ensures that users benefit from natural, intuitive voice interactions layered with rich, real-time navigation insights. The result is faster innovation cycles, elevated user satisfaction, and a future-ready foundation for OEM and mobile developers," said Brian Krzanich, Chief Executive Officer of Cerence AI.

"Within the next five years, drivers will no longer need to use their mobile phones inside cars because the vehicle itself will be as connected and full-featured as any mobile application. With the Mapbox Navigation SDK, automakers can create navigation interfaces that promote safer, more efficient driving that is easier to understand and more enjoyable to interact with. This award from AutoTech Breakthrough validates the Mapbox vision and we are excited to keep partnering with automakers to create tailored navigation experiences that their drivers love," said Peter Sirota, CEO of Mapbox.

"The Mapbox Navigation SDK platform accelerates what’s possible when applying location technologies to the automotive experience. Drivers are used to juggling disparate applications from their mobile while on the road creating potential distractions and hazards. Mapbox is taking the pace of innovation from the mobile ecosystem and bringing that to the automotive form factor, in a natural and cohesive way. Their SDK Platform brings everything together in one place and prioritizes safety. Congratulations to Mapbox on winning ‘Navigation Technology Solution of the Year!'" said Bryan Vaughn, managing director, AutoTech Breakthrough.

"Our partnership with Mapbox brings our vision for a smarter, safer, and more engaging in-car experience to life. With 3D Live Navigation and MapGPT, we’re redefining what’s possible in driving, enhancing safety and convenience through AI-powered technology," said Dongkwon Suh, Head of Navigation Business Division at Hyundai AutoEver.

"With MapGPT and Mapbox 3D Live Navigation, we’re transforming how drivers navigate. Our collaboration with Hyundai AutoEver unlocks the power of AI to make every journey safer, smarter, and more connected, setting new standards for in-car navigation and the future of connected vehicles," said Alex Barth, Vice President of Automotive at Mapbox.