Motorola Inc.’s recently formed Internet and Connectivity Services Division introduced a new application programming language that allows consumers to access the Internet using their own voice.
The VoxML Voice Markup Language enables software developers and Internet content providers-including wireless carriers-to write voice applications to provide online information to end users. The programming language opens a new distribution channel by providing access to information on the Internet and corporate intranets from any telephone using natural voice dialogue.
Wireless service providers can use VoxML to more quickly and efficiently develop their own applications and deploy value-added information services, said Mitesh Patel, director of Mobile Applications Platform at Motorola ICSD. “From a service provider’s perspective [VoxML] is a service-creation platform so they can quickly design develop and deploy applications services,” said Patel.
Wireless operators that are live with enhanced 911 capability also could leverage that network ability with the new programming language to develop location-based services that would allow their customers to get information by calling in and simply asking, “Where is the nearest family restaurant?” or “What is the southbound traffic like ahead?”
Other potential applications using VoxML would allow consumers to obtain personal banking information, weather forecasts, pizza delivery services, sports scores, stock quotes and any other of the plethora of information available on the World Wide Web. Developers also could use the programming language to extend the reach of e-mail to voice and audio interfaces.
“VoxML will revolutionize the way people access online information and Web content,” said Maria Martinez, general manager and vice president of Motorola ICSD. “This language enables developers to leverage their existing Web application skills to tap into new distribution channels and reach emerging markets and revenue streams.”
Several content providers, including the Weather Channel, CBS Marketwatch.com, Traffic Station Group, Biztravel.com, astrology.net and SmartRoute, already have developed VoxML applications.
Developing applications using VoxML is similar to developing Web applications using HTML (hyper-text markup language), which significantly reduces the learning curve for Web-experienced developers. Many of the new applications were developed within a matter of days, said Motorola ICSD.
Motorola ICSD aims to make the new programming language the voice-based standard used by other companies to enhance and improve accessibility to their services. Motorola said its VoxML concept is complementary to, but different from, the text-based solution from Unwired Planet Inc. Both companies are members of the Wireless Application Protocol Forum.
Motorola is not keeping VoxML proprietary, and a software development kit can be downloaded from http: voxml.mot.com.
