Bengaluru-based startup Ether Energy has started rolling out its Voice on Ether feature to eligible users, enabling voice-based interactions on select electric scooters through an OTA software update. The functionality is available on Ather 450X, 450 Apex and Rizta Z equipped with Gen 3 hardware or later. The rollout doesn’t extend to the 450S and Rizta S. Eligible owners are getting the feature through the company’s OTA update program.First showcased at Ather Community Day 2025 as part of the AtherStack 7 platform, the feature allows riders to use natural voice commands to access navigation, vehicle settings, calling functions and media controls. The system is powered by large language models and natural language processing technology, and is designed to understand conversational speech and Indian accents.This feature works with Aether’s Halo Smart helmet as well as compatible Bluetooth headsets. Riders can use voice prompts to find destinations, locate nearby charging stations, check arrival times, adjust screen brightness, switch traction control modes and change Magic Twist regenerative braking settings.Users can also make phone calls, manage notifications and control music playback via voice commands, reducing the need to interact with the scooter’s touchscreen while riding. According to Ether, the goal is to improve accessibility and reduce distractions on the go.Aether has also outlined plans to expand the functionality in future software updates. The company says the system will eventually move beyond command-based interactions and begin actively interacting with riders. Planned features may include alerts for potholes, tire pressure, Park Safe notifications, and other vehicle or road condition updates.With the introduction of Voice-on-Ether, the company is further expanding the connected features available on its electric scooters, bringing voice-based communication to a segment where such technology is relatively uncommon.
