SpeechWorks International (NASDAQ: SPWX), a leader in network-based speech technology, today announced that it is working with leading device, content and wireless companies to create enhanced user interface solutions which provide multimodal access to content on wireless devices. These companies--which include Compaq, Auvo Technologies and LOBBY7--are working with SpeechWorks to develop input and output mechanisms using SpeechWorks(R) speech recognition and Speechify(TM) text-to-speech technologies.
As wireless devices are becoming increasingly sophisticated with high-resolution displays, speakers and microphones, flexible data networking and attached devices such as GPS locating technology, it will be possible to support much richer user interfaces than are possible with current voice-only telephone systems. SpeechWorks is conducting research to make use of these new wireless device capabilities to dramatically enhance the user experience for a wide range of wireless applications and next generation mobile phones. Compaq's family of personal devices, iPAQ, was selected for the initial research due to the broad range of features it offers, such as high computational power and resolution screen, microphone and speaker, and because it is commercially available.
Examples of the multimodal work the group is conducting include the following scenarios: a traveler will be able to locate a friend's home in the area by "asking" their PDA device for directions from their current location, which will be known by the device. A map can then be displayed on the LCD screen as directions are "read" by the device using text-to-speech technology. A caller could even be able to ask the whereabouts of local establishments, such as a preferred restaurant, by speaking into the device, and receive a map with locations marked, as well as hours of operation.
"With the development of new wireless point-and-click, high resolution display hand-held devices and the success of speech recognition systems for commercial applications, the emergence of human-computer interaction based on the graceful integration of speech and data is a very natural evolution," said Mike Phillips, chief technology officer for SpeechWorks. "This consortium of companies, in combination with SpeechWorks' legacy of expertise in user interface design and speech technology, will expand the current information access possibilities."
SpeechWorks was selected to receive a grant from DARPA (the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency of the Federal Government) to conduct this multimodal research. DARPA has a long history of funding research in speech processing, and has had a significant impact on the development of current state-of-the-art speech technologies. "We are very proud to have been chosen as a recipient of this DARPA grant and look forward to future applications of our research around the world," explained Phillips.
"We are constantly looking at the next generation of technologies and applications that will take advantage of the unique capabilities of the iPAQ Pocket PC, so that we will be one step ahead in bringing useful innovation to our customers," said Bill Ebanks, director of business development for Wireless Internet Solutions, Compaq Computer Corporation. "Multimodal applications are perfect for the iPAQ Pocket PC because they bring a new interface to a powerful device that already gives people access to the Internet and their business information anytime, anywhere. We are excited to participate in the multimodal research SpeechWorks is heading up."
"The introduction of multimodal communications into the wireless arena will, for the first time, enable consumers to truly control their experience," said Ira Gerson, CTO at Auvo. "Auvo Technologies is developing the engine to drive this vision and we are delighted to be a part of this vital initiative."
"Success in the next generation of wireless applications will depend on the development of high-end, user-centric functionality that truly addresses the needs of mobility. LOBBY7 shares its commitment to wireless innovation with this group of companies charting new territories in information access," said Daniele De Francesco, CTO of LOBBY7. "We are excited to be working with SpeechWorks and these companies to introduce the world's first prototype of fully-functional, multimodal, mobile applications."
Visit SpeechWorks at CTIA in booth #8367. Demonstrations of multimodal access on wireless devices will be available.
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