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Tag: in car

  • Revolutionizing In-Car Transactions: Alipay Debuts Voice-Controlled Mobile Payment System

    Revolutionizing In-Car Transactions: Alipay Debuts Voice-Controlled Mobile Payment System

    At the 2026 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition, Banma Intelligence, a renowned Chinese tech corporation, partnered with fintech heavyweight Alipay to introduce a pioneering AI-enabled in-car system. This innovative technology allows drivers to initiate transactions using just their voice.

    Revolutionizing In-Car Transactions

    Known as the “AI cockpit”, the cutting-edge solution merges Banma’s in-vehicle intelligence with Alipay’s AI Pay. This allows drivers to perform hands-free transactions without the need for a smartphone. The developers of this technology aim to simplify in-car digital experiences as vehicles continue to become more software-focused.

    Ming Cai, the Chief Product Officer at Banma, noted that significant progress has been made in the realm of smart cockpits over the past two years, particularly in understanding user intent. He stated that by integrating voice-activated payments, one of the last barriers to smooth in-car digital experiences has been effectively eliminated. As a result, drivers can now simply express their intent verbally to complete a purchase.

    Emphasis on High-Demand Services

    Initially, the system primarily concentrates on services in high demand like entertainment and travel. For instance, drivers can book movie tickets, reserve hotel rooms, or order food through voice commands. A command like “buy two movie tickets” prompts the system to select showtimes and seats, following which the user can verbally confirm the choices to finalize the payment.

    Security Measures

    Security is a key feature of this new system, with Alipay integrating multi-layered risk controls and real-time fraud detection to safeguard the transactions carried out via the system.

    The development indicates a wider industry trend towards intelligent, connected vehicles, with digital services emerging as a key differentiator. Payment integration is viewed as a vital part of this ecosystem as it allows car manufacturers and software providers to deliver smooth, comprehensive user experiences.

    The companies revealed that the AI cockpit has already completed integration testing with several prominent automakers and is set to feature in new vehicle models in the latter half of 2026.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the “AI Cockpit”?
    The “AI Cockpit” is a state-of-the-art system developed by Banma Intelligence and Alipay that allows drivers to conduct transactions using voice commands.

    What services does the AI Cockpit initially focus on?
    The system is initially focused on high-demand services like entertainment and travel. It allows drivers to book movie tickets, reserve hotel rooms, and order food using voice commands.

    How does the system ensure the security of transactions?
    Security is a key feature of the system. Alipay has incorporated multi-layered risk controls and real-time fraud detection measures to protect transactions conducted through the system.

  • Malaysians get a taste for in-car dining during lockdowns

    Malaysians get a taste for in-car dining during lockdowns

    Diners in Malaysia can now enjoy restaurant meals from the safety and comfort of their vehicles after an eatery started a drive-in service for people eager to eat out during a COVID-19 lockdown.

    The Southeast Asian nation is in its fourth week of nationwide restrictions imposed as it grapples with a surge in coronavirus infections that has pushed the cumulative total to more than 230,000 cases, with more than 800 deaths.

    In Cyberjaya, a satellite city on the outskirts of the capital Kuala Lumpur, customers drive into the parking lot of Padi House restaurant and order from laminated menus through the vehicle windows.

    Each set meal comes on a customized tray that fits in the narrow space between the driver seat and steering wheel.

    “I work at the bank so its not a suitable environment for me to eat. I prefer to go out and sometimes we need a change in scenery so that I can enjoy my food, even in a car,” said Nor Shekin Nor Razali, who had lunch with a colleague on Thursday (Feb 4).

    The restaurant has closed its dine-in service and, like most eateries in Malaysia, had been offering takeaways only.

    Owner Leow Kim Ngan said the inspiration came from airline meals after business dropped 80per cent due to the pandemic.

    “It’s very challenging, we have to think of a new way to find more income,” said Leow.

    Malaysia is currently at its peak of infections, averaging more than 4,600 new cases per day.

    Infection numbers have been climbing steadily since the end of September. A second nationwide lockdown, which bans social activities and inter-state travel, is due to end on Feb 18.

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