GM's New OnStar AI Assistant Debuts on 2027 Cadillac Lyriq, but Live Advisors Aren't Going Anywhere

General Motors introduced its next-generation OnStar system in New York this week, built around an AI assistant that responds to voice commands rather than the familiar blue button. The first vehicle to get it is the battery-electric 2027 Cadillac Lyriq, with the service eventually spreading across the GM lineup.

Drivers can say "Hey OnStar" to ask about cabin temperature, tire pressure, or to open the glove box. The assistant can even find a song from a few recited lyrics. GM says it will learn individual preferences and driving style.

OnStar, now 30 years old, counts more than 12 million subscribers across 22 markets and relies on roughly 2,000 live advisors handling over 20 million calls a year from centers in Michigan, Ontario, North Carolina, and the Philippines. Asked whether the AI threatens those jobs, GM executives said the goal is to improve service, not cut staff. "There will always be a role for our live advisors," said Nick Festa, executive director of OnStar Product Management. Anna Santos, GM's director of product management for voice and AI/ML, called the assistant "additive" and said humans would step in when AI answers fall short.

Still, GM didn't rule out AI handling more basic call center tasks. Pricing for the assistant hasn't been disclosed, and access will come through a new mobile app replacing the current OnStar Guardian and brand apps.