Voice Control

Voice Control Overview

Voice control1 is an available technology in our vehicles that allows drivers and front passengers to perform various functions using spoken commands.

Functions that the in-vehicle voice control system can perform are:

  • Enter a navigation address*.
  • Search for points of interest in listed categories*.
  • Place phone calls from a paired device.
  • Read or dictate text messages from a paired device.
  • Change vehicle media source, radio station, or frequency.

A variety of voice commands are available, depending on which language has been set in the Infotainment system and whether there is an active VW Car-Net® Plus Speech with AI2 subscription, which unlocks more voice control capabilities. For full details and a list of compatible languages, please refer to the Owner's Manual.

A list of example voice commands can be found in your Voice Control settings, as well as by accessing the "Help" menu in the Infotainment system and selecting Voice operation.

Initiating a voice command can be accomplished either by manually pressing the talk button on the multi-function steering wheel or by using a wake word, like "Hello Volkswagen".

*Applies to vehicles equipped with factory-installed navigation.

Manual Activation

  • A short press of the Talk button  on the multi-function steering wheel activates the in-vehicle voice control1.
  • A long press of the Talk button  on the multi-function steering wheel activates the digital assistant of a connected compatible mobile device.

Wake Word Activation

To activate voice control1 by voice with a wake word, like "Hello Volkswagen", you'll first need to enable it:

  1. Press the MENU button on the Infotainment system.

  2. Select Settings.

  3. Select Voice operation.

  4. Scroll down to the "Wake word" section.

  5. Check the box next to "Activate voice control via wake word".

  6. Choose the default "Hello Volkswagen" wake word or create a Custom wake word.

  • Note: To deactivate wake word functionality, uncheck the "Active" box.

Wake Word Customization

To change the wake word¹:

  1. Press the MENU button on the Infotainment system.

  2. Select Settings.

  3. Select Voice operation.

  4. Scroll down to the "Wake word" section.

  5. Check the box next to "Activate voice control via wake word."

  6. Check the box next to "Custom wake word."

  7. Either say or type your new wake word by pressing either "Enter wake word by voice" or "Type in wake word."

  • Tip: Try choosing a wake word or phrase that has a higher detection rating to help prevent unintended activation of the voice control system. This means selecting a word or phrase that isn’t part of your typical “everyday” conversation. The detection rating will be shown once a custom wake word is set.

Voice Control Tips

  • When requesting to call or text another person1, the contact must be said exactly as it is stored in your phone's contact list.
    • If multiple numbers are stored per contact, you may use the shortcut: "Call John Smith, work" if the number is stored that way. The system may ask you to choose "work, mobile, home," etc.
  • When using a wake word, unintended activation is more likely when using a wake word or phrase that has a low or poor detection rating1. For a higher detection rating, choose a word or phrase that isn’t part of your typical “everyday” conversation. The detection rating will be shown once a custom wake word is set.
  • If subscribed to Plus Speech with AI2, the generative AI can help answer a wide variety of questions, but this part of the feature does not control vehicle functions and cannot answer real-time information.

1 Functionality mentioned only available in select models. See owner's literature for limitations and details.

2 Requires a VW ID, myVW account, Car-Net subscription, acceptance of VW Car-Net Terms of Service, and vehicle cellular and GPS connectivity. Availability of voice control functions and artificial intelligence features vary based on vehicle model, model year, and trim. AI features integrated with Plus Speech are provided by a third-party, and use of the AI features are subject to the third-party provider’s terms of use and privacy policy. Volkswagen is not responsible for the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of any information provided as a result of using the AI features. Any actions taken or reliance on such AI features are at your own risk. Always consult the Owner’s Manual for specific information about your vehicle. Always pay careful attention to the road and do not drive while distracted.