Samsung's Harman International has expanded its relationship with Chinese Internet and web services company Baidu to jointly develop new cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) solutions aimed at Chinese automakers.

The two companies will collaborate to integrate Baidu's DuerOS-based personal digital assistant and voice recognition engine technologies with Harman's connected car and cloud platforms.

DuerOS is an open operating system that already supports access to a voice-activated digital assistant for mobile phones, TVs, speakers, and other devices, while providing access to third-party developers. Together, the companies will now collaborate to create smart automotive features including automatic speech recognition (ASR) in English and Mandarin, natural language processing and speech synthesis.

The agreement builds on Harman's existing relationship with Baidu struck over two years ago to launch a vehicle networking solution with advanced Internet capabilities, entertainment features and location-based services (CarLife).

Beyond the automotive market, the two companies also plan to deliver audio solutions for speech-enabled smart speakers, also integrated with Baidu's advanced AI technology.