Talking machines promise to revolutionize our lives in the future
June 14 2008 / by futuretalk / In association with Future Blogger.net
Category: Technology Year: General Rating: 13
By Futuretalk
Imagine a machine that can not only understand what you say, but can act on it; one that actually learns through experience, and knows you well enough to anticipate your needs.
Now further imagine that this voice-interactive machine will
appear as an avatar – an on-screen image resembling your favorite
movie character or loved one. 
On command, it will materialize on any TV screen and computer
monitor in your home, or on display screens in your car radio and
cell phone, addressing you by name and asking, “How can I help
you.”
Poised at the cutting edge of this fast growing industry, Fair Isaac’s Robert Hecht-Nielsen believes his company will soon market a machine called Chancellor that could bring the vision of true conversational machines closer to reality.
“We see Chancellor as a small, cylindrical device, several of which can be placed around the home,” says Hecht-Nielsen. It is wireless and gets its power from the Internet. In addition to handling daily family tasks, such as answering phones, making appointments, and maintaining schedules, this futuristic device also becomes a portal to the world of automated commerce.”
Unlike most artificial intelligence systems, the Fair Isaac machine does not use algorithms or software, or adhere to standard grammar rules. Instead, it utilizes computer simulations of brain tissues which enable it to process information and acquire knowledge similar to the way that we do; and it communicates using perfect human speech. (cont.)
How does technology affect relationships? Telephones,
cameras, and camcorders have long been instrumental in bringing
people together. Today, many spend time chatting on the phone or
the Internet – trying to develop or strengthen friendships.