Speech Applications & Solutions

Speech Applications & Solutions Featured Article

 

If you're planning on buying a car in the next few years, chances are you will be purchasing one equipped with an array of new technologies and capabilities that once seemed only imagined or limited to futuristic thinking.

 

As more and more automobile manufacturers announce the incorporation of new technologies and services in their upcoming cars, Ford Motor Company, who announced recently a new in-car digital system called Sync, looked to Nuance (News - Alert) Communications, provider of speech applications and solutions, when it came to speech enabling their system.

 

The new Ford digital in-car system will be factory installed and is an entertainment and communication system based on Microsoft’s (News - Alert) Sync technology that will forever change the usage of digital media, portable and mobile devices while in a vehicle.

 

With Nuance's speech applications and solutions, Ford has been able to incorporate the ability to operate devices and phones as well as control the radio and the cars steering wheel, all by using voice commands.

 

This is especially important as the introduction of so many portable and wireless devices have taken a toll on the safety of drivers on the road. A common problem is the distraction caused by operating or utilizing these devices while trying to drive. By offering an eyes-free, hands-free way of still utilizing these technologies, safer roads will once again be possible.

 

One of the new features of Sync, made possible with Nuances Speech solutions is hands-free calling that is voice activated and gives drivers a push to talk button that is incorporated onto the steering wheel. The Sync system also reads aloud text messages received on a mobile phone by converting the text into speech and is even able to recognize expressions like "LOL". Drivers can also browse and command that songs from song lists be played by using their voice.

 

The system is also fluent in Spanish, English and French.

 

"With the advanced speech technology in Sync, Ford is able to offer drivers newfound convenience, safety and user experience for enjoying the myriad in car-communications and entertainment options. With Sync, powered by Nuance Automotive, Ford drivers should never have to take their eyes off the road to dial their phone, receive text messages or select songs from their iPod, Zune or other MP3 player," Steve Chambers, president, Speech Division, at Nuance commented.

 

 

Look for Sync to begin appearing later this year in Ford’s 2008 Focus, Fusion, Five Hundred, Edge, Freestyle, Explorer, Sport Trac, Mercury Milan, Montego, Mountaineer, Lincoln MKX and MKX vehicle lines.

 

 

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