5 Ways Voice Recognition Is Now A Part of Our Everyday Lives

Voice recognition software used to be the realm of science fiction, with practical applications rarely extending beyond devices that could recognize a few carefully selected words. When voice recognition hit computers, it became possible to train the computer to recognize your voice. However, this rarely resulted in perfectly accurate results. Now, people are communicating with devices, typing emails and improving their lives using natural speech patterns. As we take a look at the five ways voice recognition software has changed our lives, keep in mind the history and development required to reach this amazing point in history.

Telephone Menus

Most businesses now have the option to speak your commands when you call a company. You might be presented with a list of options, or get a prompt to ask for what you're looking for in just a few words. Banks might allow you to ask for your balance, check the latest deposits or transfer money to another account all without touching any keys on the phone. This is extremely useful for people who are not able to free their hands to type, or that are working on other activities while attempting to complete errands.

Cell Phones

Most cell phones use voice recognition software to help you find what you need. Apple's Siri is a prime example of voice-activated software that helps you find information, get things done and even play around on your phone. If you're ever in the mood for a joke, ask your device to tell you a joke and see what it says. People with mild forms of autism have even used these response features to connect with the world and develop their social skills. The technology has come a long way, and is now used very comfortably in a variety of situations.

Voice Recognition Replaces Typing

Many people who work in business now use voice recognition software to dictate their emails and other communications. The technology has reached a point where a good degree of accuracy can be obtained. After typing the email, a quick glance over the text can help detect any errors. This technology can save a significant amount of time for people who don't type quickly, or that need to work on other projects while responding to communications. The technology also extends to opening up applications on your computer, typing reports and controlling various aspects of the operating system. As the technology continues to improve, voice recognition software may eventually make the keyboard less relevant.

Home Environment Controls

Many new thermostats and other controllers around your house now respond to voice recognition. You can turn your thermostat up or down by simply activating the voice recognition software. Enable or disable your home's alarm through a specially designed voice recognition app. Virtually everything in your home can be controlled using smart apps installed on your phone. The ability to use your voice to manage and control your environment poses a huge benefit for those with too much on their plate.

Driving Your Car

Navigation control, thermostat features, radio and your stereo in your car can now be controlled using just your voice. The technology allows you to adjust your route, play a selected song or artist, and drive more safely. By removing the distraction of fiddling with buttons while you drive, it makes it safer for both you and everyone else on the road. Phone calls can be answered without having to pick up your phone, and your entire car's audio system can be turned into a microphone and speaker to make and receive calls. As the technology continues to improve more safety mechanisms will be introduced to improve the experience of driving your car.