03-15-2007, 12:29 AM
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Editor Emeritus
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 2,432
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Microsoft To Buy Voice Recognition Company Tellme
"Microsoft today announced it has purchased TellMe, the voice powered search provider, for an undisclosed sum estimate at $800 million to one billion. Microsoft made the purchase to integrate TellMe's voice services into its new Windows Live products, however TellMe will remain an independently run subsidiary. TellMe currently power the 411 and other voice-based systems for many carriers, as well as FedEx and other companies. Many people first used TellMe by dialing the system directly at 1 800 555 TELL, which can still be used for services like taxis, movie times and driving directions, before its services were offered through more common outlets."
Out of all of my pet peeves, voice automated systems are right up there with touch based screens. In fact, I might dislike voice automated systems more than I dislike finger smudges! There is just something extraordinarily frustrating about talking to an automated system, especially when you are expecting to speak with a real individual. All annoyances aside, if Microsoft could find a way to integrate this new technology into their Windows Live Search application without all the quirks and frustrations that come with talking to an automated system, I would be one very happy Smartphone (Standard) user! 
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