Microsoft Unveils New Speech Software

Dom · Jul 10, 2003, 04:06 PM

REDMOND, Wash. - Microsoft Corp. on Wednesday released a test version of its new speech-recognition server software, hoping to stake a claim in the market for companies wanting to automate customer service and other functions.

Microsoft is soliciting about 100 companies in retail, financial, health care and other industries wanting to test its Speech Server technology, said James Mastan, marketing director for Microsoft's speech technologies team.

Already airlines and other companies are relying on competitors' speech technology to give callers flight arrival and departure information.

The final product is scheduled for release in the first half of 2004, Mastan said.

Microsoft itself is testing its speech-recognition software, with an automated, voice-activated phone directory called Quicksilver. Employees call the "attendant" and tell the system the person they are trying to contact. The system then prompts the callers, asking if they want the person's office phone, cell phone or to dictate an e-mail.

Microsoft also released a new version of tools to help developers add speech-recognition abilities to Web programs.

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Source: Y!News

Jul 10, 2003, 04:06 PM	#1
Dom DriverHeaven Extreme Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 12,940 Rep Power: 0	Microsoft Unveils New Speech Software REDMOND, Wash. - Microsoft Corp. on Wednesday released a test version of its new speech-recognition server software, hoping to stake a claim in the market for companies wanting to automate customer service and other functions. Microsoft is soliciting about 100 companies in retail, financial, health care and other industries wanting to test its Speech Server technology, said James Mastan, marketing director for Microsoft's speech technologies team. Already airlines and other companies are relying on competitors' speech technology to give callers flight arrival and departure information. The final product is scheduled for release in the first half of 2004, Mastan said. Microsoft itself is testing its speech-recognition software, with an automated, voice-activated phone directory called Quicksilver. Employees call the "attendant" and tell the system the person they are trying to contact. The system then prompts the callers, asking if they want the person's office phone, cell phone or to dictate an e-mail. Microsoft also released a new version of tools to help developers add speech-recognition abilities to Web programs. ____________________ Source: Y!News