According to ScanSoft, Dragon NaturallySpeaking Version 8 provides an accuracy increase of more than 25 percent, can convert speech into text on a PC at up to 160 words per minute, and allows users to control a PC completely by voice.

In addition to adding support for using Pocket PCs for mobile dictation, other new features of Version 8, according to ScanSoft, include: smart formatting of spoken dates, numbers and acronyms; roaming use from any PC on a network; and expanded ability to add custom vocabularies. The new release also includes expanded network tools for installing Dragon NaturallySpeaking 8 throughout an enterprise.

ScanSoft says that Dragon NaturallySpeaking is "tightly integrated" with Microsoft Office, allowing users to create new documents, or change the layout of existing documents, using voice. ScanSoft also provides versions of the product that are US Section 508 certified to meet government standards for use by those with disabilities.

Dragon NaturallySpeaking is available in several editions including Standard, Preferred, Professional, Medical, Legal, and Macintosh. An SDK edition is also available which enables developers to add speech recognition to new or existing applications.

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