By Adina Halter, Comcast; Sara Smolley, Voiceitt
Voice control of set-top boxes is becoming the norm. But voice technology needs to be able to understand non-standard speakers as well. Non-standard speech can be a factor for people affected by deafness, disabilities, medical disorders, or even foreign language speakers.
Comcast and Voiceitt, an Israel-based voice technology startup, have collaborated to explore a solution using a mobile application paired to a set-top box. In this paper, we describe how we are applying machine learning and artificial intelligence to create unique voice command models for individuals with speech disabilities to access the set-top box. In this paper, we will cover:
• Non-standard speech and how this translates to customer set-top-box control • Solution method and architecture • Description of our ongoing customer trial.
Offering accessible voice control for non-standard speakers can open the opportunity for all customers to experience the joy and convenience of a voice-enabled home entertainment system.