Turn Your Car Rides into Productive AI Conversations
Hey AI enthusiasts! 👋
Ever wished you could make better use of your time in the car? Let me share how I've been turning my commutes into productive brainstorming sessions using voice-activated AI assistants.
The Basics: Getting Started
There are two main ways I do this:
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Google Assistant: Just say "Hey Google" or hold down the button on a Pixel phone. Simple and built right in.
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ChatGPT Mobile: Open the app, tap the voice icon (yes, it takes a moment to connect to the mothership 🚀), and start talking.
Pro Tip: Turn on Search
Here's where it gets interesting. Enable search in ChatGPT, and suddenly your car becomes a rolling research station. I use this for:
- Getting quick answers about tech possibilities
- Understanding complex topics while driving
- Staying up-to-date with breaking news
Here's a real example: I was listening to a podcast about a Bitcoin-related arrest and attempted pardon. Instead of making a mental note to look it up later, I just asked ChatGPT right there. Not only did I get the basic facts, but it also gave me related context - like how in the FTX trial, cooperating witnesses' sentencing was delayed until all trials concluded.
The beauty is that you get both real-time search results AND the model's general knowledge combined into coherent responses.
Level Up: Use Prepared Prompts
Want to make these conversations even more productive? Have some prompts ready to go.
I especially love using requirements-gathering prompts. They guide you through a series of questions that help you think through ideas thoroughly. It's like having a product manager riding shotgun, helping you flesh out your thoughts.
The Best Part: Nothing Gets Lost
Here's what I love most: When you finally get to your destination and later open your laptop, everything from your car conversations is right there in your chat history.
(Pro tip: While ChatGPT skips reading out code snippets in voice mode, they're all preserved in the chat history for you to use later.)
Why This Matters
Think about how much time we spend in our cars. Instead of just listening to music or podcasts, you can: - Work through complex problems - Research topics you're curious about - Document ideas before they slip away - Plan projects while they're fresh in your mind
It's like having a smart co-pilot who's always ready to help you think things through.
Give it a try on your next drive. You might be surprised how much you can accomplish in what used to be "just driving time."
Happy talking! 🚗 🎙️
P.S. If you liked this, check out my post about Superwhisper - another great tool for voice-to-text interaction!