| Microsoft unveils voice-controlled software for Pocket PC devices |
Nov. 03, 2003
Microsoft today unveiled its first voice-controlled software for Windows Mobile based Pocket PC and Pocket PC Phone Edition. According to Microsoft, the new "Voice Command" software transforms PDAs and cell phones into "virtual personal assistants" by allowing consumers to experience "effortless, speaker-independent, hands-free voice interaction" with their phone, contacts, calendar and digital music while on the go.
"Voice Command turns up the volume on today's speech-recognition technology, revolutionizing the way consumers interact with their Pocket PC," Microsoft said. "Whether users are phoning a friend from behind the wheel, checking appointments while running errands or listening to music on the treadmill, Voice Command makes it easier, simpler and more convenient than ever for them to take their connected lifestyle with them wherever they go."
Voice Command software is said to be based on a next-generation phonetic speech-recognition technology, the result of 10 years of research, that makes speech interaction simple, intuitive, and practical. Unlike most voice-controlled software applications today that require users to deliver unnatural and prerecorded verbal commands, Voice Command lets them use natural language, Microsoft says.
Microsoft summarizes Voice Command's key features as follows . . . - Voice-controlled hands-free phone. Whether in the car, at the airport or walking down the street, people will enjoy true hands-free phone conversations without ever having to manually dial a number. They can simply say any name from their contact list. For example, they might say "Call Bob Smith," or they could give a number, saying for example, "Dial 555-1212."
- Voice-controlled calendar lookup. Checking appointments has never been easier. Regardless of location, consumers can simply ask their Pocket PC, "What's my next appointment?" or "What's my calendar?" and the time, subject and location of each entry will be read aloud.
- Voice-controlled Windows Media Player. Now voice commands can be used as a virtual remote control to select and play music by album, artist or genre so people won't be fumbling for CDs or scrolling through a long list of songs. Consumers can also simply say, "Play music," using Voice Command as their personal disc jockey.
- Voice-controlled application launcher. Consumers can open Pocket PC applications with ease using natural voice cues to launch any program, including Internet Explorer, Outlook Calendar, Contacts and Tasks, games and Calculator. For example, a consumer can say "Start Solitaire," and let the games begin.
"Voice Command provides a significant improvement in speech software that is dramatically changing the way people will forever use their mobile devices," claims Pieter Knook, corporate vice president for Microsoft's Mobile and Embedded Devices and Network Service Providers group. "The product is a great example of how we're driving synergies between our platforms and devices business to create more powerful mobile experiences for our customers."
Voice Command was developed by Microsoft's Automotive Business Unit in order to meet safety requirements for in-car mobile device use. A recent survey revealed that 85 percent of U.S. cell phone owners and 50 percent of PDA owners use their devices while in the car, Microsoft said.
"We've been focused on providing improved communication, entertainment and information to drivers and passengers for the past decade," noted Dick Brass, corporate vice president of Microsoft's Automotive Technologies group.
Voice Command is currently available for $39.95 on Handango.com and PocketPC.com.
(Click here for further information)
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