Voice technology started with basic speech recognition systems, but it didn’t just end there. The real game changer came and updated this basic speech recognition system to a voice assistant capable of understanding context and performing various tasks.
Thus was the launch of Apple Siri, then Amazon Alexa followed suit and expanded the concept of voice assistants into the smart home space, which could control the lights, play music and even order groceries. Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana also entered the scene. Each brought unique features and capabilities.
These advancements made voice assistants more versatile and user-friendly. So, that’s how the number of devices that use voice keeps growing and growing. In today’s article, we will explore the future of voice technology and the perks it has to offer.
Let’s dive in!
Source: Freepik
Voice Technology is a system/tool that equips computers and digital devices with the capability to process and respond to human voice commands. It allows a computer to recognize different spoken words.
It is based on natural language processing (NLP), machine learning, automatic speech recognition, and other complex processes; like the actual phonetic recognition of different words, and the construction of or interpretation of the actual language as spoken, a field called natural language processing.
Using these technologies makes our interactions with technology more intuitive and accessible to everyone.
Current Applications of Voice Tech
Voice Technology can not be overemphasized, here are some of the most current Applications of voice tech;
#1. Smart home assistance or voice assistants
Voice Technology such as Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant etc, uses voice recognition technology to carry out household tasks, such as turning on the lights, boiling water, adjusting the thermostat, and more. They revolutionize how we interact with our homes
#2. Voice search and speech-to-text
Voice speech is the common use of voice recognition. It is the use of voice assistants to search for something based on what you want to check out.
Speech-to-words or text-to-speech is where the voice assistant converts either your speech or text to the desired form be it graphics text or speech. The voice assistant converts your spoken words into text using speech recognition technology.
This allows the assistant to communicate the information back to you in a natural and human-like voice.
#3. Voice Assistants used as Work/Office assistants
Another trend is the use of this voice technology to incorporate into a business software for the result of a voice assistant for its employees. Many businesses use voice assistants as help. Like customer service, in-car voice assistant, e-commerce, marketing and so on.
In-car assistants allow the user to control through a voice command not only simple entertainment features. You can also use it for even more complicated actions like unlocking the car for easy access.
Voice Technology is gradually taking hold of the business world, as a lot of companies use them for faster and easier life. It is an effective call centre service solution, available 24/7, and is cheaper than live representative. They are usually available and ready to answer anyone. It is being used as a means for improved marketing campaigns.
#4. Voice technology in education
Voice technology comes in handy in the educational sector as it is used for various reasons in the system. This is a way to help students learn better and improve their performance. They can help them have faster access to the information they need about university resources, curriculum information, and many other needs students may have.
Another interesting use of voice technology is for transcribing and dictation cases. You can use its voice recognition capabilities to take interview notes, transcribe meetings, podcasts, and other types of conversations. Another useful option is to use voice assistants to help students catch up on material or revise for exams.
Teachers can record their lectures and then upload them as podcasts, which students can later download and listen to. They can also create a learning platform for children with no/low sight so that they can have easy access to learning things as well. Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques have evolved to a point where voice recognition systems can not only transcribe speech accurately but also comprehend the meaning behind the words.
#5. Voice technology in the health care sector
Voice technology assists providers by documenting patient data, setting reminders, and providing on-demand health insight. They are poised to make significant inroads in healthcare.
They assist with tasks ranging from appointment scheduling to providing medical advice based on symptom descriptions.
Voice assistants could offer medication reminders, monitor health metrics, and even provide emotional support for patients with chronic conditions. This could revolutionize patient care, making healthcare more accessible and personalized. It helps us talk to our devices, which makes them more intelligent and responsive, in case of an emergency.
Top 5 voice assistants are;
- Amazon Alexa
- Google Assistant
- Apple Siri
- Microsoft Cortana
- Samsung Bixby
Source: Freepik
The Future of Voice Technology: Potential Impact
#1. Personalize experience
By understanding user preferences, habits, and emotions, voice technology will be able to deliver highly personalized recommendations, notifications, and interactions.
Imagine a voice assistant that learns your daily routines, providing proactive reminders and relevant information, checking your health activities before you even ask.
Here is the process whereby your smart devices are personalized to you, they know your routine, help you and make things easier for you.
#2. Enhanced accessibility
Voice Technology is making the world very accessible to everyone, especially those with disabilities. They don’t go through the stress of brewing their tea, washing their clothes or even checking their health.
When it can be easily accessed by just talking or voice commands. As technology continues to evolve, there are more chances that new technologies and ideas will be created.
Read also: How to Build Your Brand on LinkedIn
#3. Better privacy and security features
As voice recognition software becomes more and more popular, we’ll need better privacy and security to protect our data from unauthorized access.
Future speech recognition systems will very likely incorporate advanced biometrics, which will allow them to not only distinguish what is being said but also who is saying it.
The unique aspects of our voices could become the new two-factor authentication, providing a higher level of security for your data. Building user trust and encouraging voice technology to be adopted by everyone is dependent on compliance with these regulations.
#4. Improving efficiency and productivity
It is transforming the workplace by boosting efficiency and productivity. This technology allows employees to handle tasks hands-free, making multitasking easier and faster.
This is particularly beneficial for small businesses looking to optimize their budgets. The integration of voice technology in customer service has also reduced response times and improved customer satisfaction rates.
They are also used to document patient information, reduce paperwork in the hospital and minimize errors. It is proving to be a game-changer in various industries, enhancing productivity and operational efficiency.
Read also: Understanding the Impact of IoT on Everyday Life
Wrap-Up: The Future of Voice Technology
The future of voice technology seems to be a bright one. It is on the path to becoming an indispensable part of our daily lives and it’s applicable to everyone, even those with disabilities.
As we approach the future of “no touch” user experience, there is no doubt that voice offers brands an abundance of opportunities ranging from accessibility, to creating intuitive experience across all industries.
While it promises vast potential, ethical considerations such as privacy, inclusivity, and security must be addressed to ensure that voice technology benefits all.
