Every now and again, Apple purchases some startups and if the Silicon Valley company doesn’t make any official announcement, they might go unnoticed. However, it’s not the case of VocalIQ Ltd., the most recent startup added to the portfolio.
Dealing with Siri often proves to be more annoying than helpful but Apple is working on making your interactions with the virtual assistant more natural. Purchasing this artificial-intelligence startup is part of that effort.
Apple deemed that UK-based VocalIQ would have something to add to the table concerning improvements in the PC’s capacity of understanding human speech and “speaking” more naturally. Both Apple and VocalIQ have yet to comment on the terms of the deal.
According to the Apple representative who confirmed the deal, it’s not uncommon for the iPhone’s maker to acquire smaller technology companies and not disclose any motivation or future plans.
Siri’s struggle with comprehending human voice and language is real. The virtual assistant could use some more improvement, and this purchase might be a key player in doing just that. As described on VocalIQ’s website, the software it proves is based on profound learning, an artificial-intelligence process that enables a more natural communication with devices.
PCs are also assisted by VocalIQ software in achieving a better understanding of commands and the connection between one summon and another. It’s no surprise that the tech industry has in plan to make voice charges the main controller, be it with cars or robots or smart-homes, and the VocalIQ products provide a step closer to that achievement.
Beyond enhancing Apple’s products, VocalIQ’s technology could also improve cars. A year ago, the Journal was reporting that VocalIQ has paired with General Motors Co. on creating a system that allows drivers to control their car’s route by voice.
VocalIQ is rather focused on artificial intelligence technology, teaching PCs how to make decisions like humans do. So far, the company’s software is able to comprehend human voice, make records of all discussions, and learn how to stay informed if there are ways in which the software neglected to understand speech.
Even though Apple has remained silent on how it plans to utilize VocalIQ’s technology, improving Siri would come in handy. And considering that better virtual assistants have emerged on the market – such as Microsoft’s Cortana or Facebook’s M – Apple should really look into those glitches and faulty processes that Siri is still bugged with.
Image Source: The Next Web
